Quarterlytics / Real Estate / Real Estate - Development / Lar España Real Estate SOCIMI

Lar España Real Estate SOCIMI

lre · LSE Real Estate
Claim this profile
Ticker lre
Exchange LSE
Sector Real Estate
Industry Real Estate - Development
Employees 201-500
← All annual reports
FY2016 Annual Report · Lar España Real Estate SOCIMI
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
BALANCE
IS OUR FOCUS

Annual Report & Accounts 2016

L

a

n

c

a

s

h

i

r

e

H

o

l

d

i

n

g

s

L

i

m

i

t

e

d

A

n

n

u

a

l

R

e

p

o

r

t

&

A

c

c

o

u

n

t

s

2

0

1

6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
STRATEGIC REPORT
Overview
2  Our investment proposition
10  Chairman’s statement
12  Our business model

Strategy
14  Chief Executive’s review
16  Our strategy

Performance
18  Financial review
20  Key performance indicators
22  Underwriting review
24  Business review
31  Enterprise risk management
34  Principal risks
36  Corporate responsibility

GOVERNANCE
42  Chairman’s introduction
44  Board of Directors
47  Corporate governance report
50  Committee reports
61  Directors’ remuneration report
80  Directors’ report
84  Statement of Directors’ responsibilities

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
85  Independent auditors’ report
91  Consolidated primary financial statements
95  Accounting policies
101  Risk disclosures
129  Notes to the accounts

Additional information
155  Shareholder information
156  Glossary
160  Contact information

RETURN ON 
EQUITY 

COMBINED  
RATIO 

PROFIT  
AFTER TAX 

13.5%

(2015: 10.9%)*

76.5%

(2015: 72.1%)

$153.8m

(2015: $181.1m)

(2015: 0.7%)

TOTAL 
INVESTMENT 
RETURN
2.1%

DIVIDEND  
YIELD 

10.5%

(2015: 17.3%)

TOTAL 
SHAREHOLDER 
RETURN
2.4%

(2015: 25.9%)

.

1
8
9
*

1
6
7
*

.

7
0
2

.

6
8
7

.

6
3
9

.

.

1
3
9
*

1
3
5

.

.

1
0
9
*

7
6
5

.

7
2
.
1

2
3
4
9

.

2
2
9
3

.

2
2
2
5

.

3
.
1

1
7.
8

1
7.
3

2
1
.
6

2
1
.
3

2
5
9

.

2
.
1

1
2
3

.

8
3

.

1
0
5

.

.

2
4

-
2
4
2

.

1
8
1
.
1

1
5
3
8

.

1
.
0

0
7

.

0
3

.

12 13 14 15 16

12 13 14 15 16

12 13 14 15 16

12 13 14 15 16

12 13 14 15 16

12 13 14 15 16

* RoE excluding the impact of warrants was 13.5% in 2015, 14.7% in 2014, 18.9% in 2013 and 17.1% in 2012.

FOCUS ON
MAINTAINING  
BALANCE

Lancashire is a provider of global specialty insurance and reinsurance products operating 
in Bermuda and London across three platforms: rated insurers, Lloyd’s and collateralised 
security. The Group focuses on short-tail, mostly direct, specialty (re)insurance risks  
under five general categories: Property, Energy, Marine, Aviation and Lloyd’s.

Markets continue to be difficult to navigate, yet we have again delivered strong returns  
by staying focused on balancing our risks to maximise returns while remaining ready for  
a change in market conditions. We are guided by our three consistent strategic maxims:

•  underwriting comes first;

•  effectively balance risk and return; and

•  operate nimbly through the cycle.

We manage the insurance cycle so we can continue to deliver greater value for our clients 
and shareholders.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

1

OVERVIEW 
OUR INVESTMENT PROPOSITION

OUR STRATEGY
IS BALANCED…

… to produce a consistently high 
performance in volatile markets

Lancashire has one of the best performances and yet lower 
volatility in the London and Bermudian markets, and has  
a proven record of returning excess capital to shareholders.

… to deliver superior returns  

across the cycle

Our strategy is designed to cope with hard and soft  
markets, managing capital and exposures to provide  
superior risk-adjusted returns across the cycle.

(1)  RoE including the impact of warrants.

… by the experience of our underwriters,  

to produce higher returns across the cycle

Group management and our underwriters have  
decades of experience in rated companies, Lloyd’s  
and collateralised markets.

(1)  Ten-year average based on 2007 to 2016 reporting periods. Lancashire ratios weighted by annual 

net premiums earned. Annual sector ratios are weighted by annual net premiums earned.

(2)  Sector includes Arch, Argo, Aspen, Axis, Beazley, Everest, Hanover, Hiscox, Novae,  

Renaissance Re and Validus. 2016 results for Hiscox and Novae not available at time of report.

Source: Company reports

2 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

PROVEN RECORD OF ACTIVE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT 

500

400

)

m
$
(

300

200

100

0

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Share repurchases

Special dividend

Ordinary dividends

Percentage of IPO capital returned

TEN-YEAR RETURN ON EQUITY1 

y
t
i
u
q
E
n
o
n
r
u
t
e
R

35

30

25

20

15

10

5

0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

TEN-YEAR COMBINED RATIO 

o
i
t
a
r
d
e
n
b
m
o
C

i

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Lancashire
Sector2 average

Lancashire – 10-year average1
Sector average – 10-year average1

 
 
 
… across sectors  

and geographies

A well-diversified portfolio across multiple lines and 
geographies as a base to trade across the cycle.

GROSS PREMIUMS WRITTEN BY CLASS AND REGION 

PROPERTY  
LLOYD’S 
ENERGY  
MARINE 
AVIATION 

34.6%
33.9%
19.9%
5.9%
5.7%

U.S. AND CANADA  
WORLDWIDE OFFSHORE 
WORLDWIDE, INCLUDING 
THE U.S. AND CANADA  
EUROPE 
FAR EAST 
WORLDWIDE, EXCLUDING 
THE U.S. AND CANADA 
MIDDLE EAST 
REST OF WORLD 

28.4%
25.5%

18.2%
7.4%
4.6%

2.4%
2.1%
11.4%

… by diversification across our platforms 

RETURN ON EQUITY BY PLATFORM 

and delivering on all three

.

9
3
%

9
.
1

%

Each of our platforms makes a positive contribution  
to the Group’s RoE.

.

3
6
%

.

3
4
%

.

0
8
%

.

0
8
%

2015 2016

Lancashire
Cathedral
Kinesis

15 16
Note: 2015 RoE is excluding warrants.

15 16

15 16

… to protect our assets

INVESTMENT ASSET ALLOCATION 

We hedge our interest rate risk with risk assets and aim  
to minimise the downside on our investment portfolio.

DURATION

1.8 years

CASH AND SHORT-TERM 
INVESTMENTS  
U.S. GOVERNMENT BONDS 
AND AGENCY DEBT 
OTHER GOVERNMENT BONDS  
CORPORATE AND BANK LOANS 
NON-AGENCY STRUCTURED 
PRODUCTS 
AGENCY STRUCTURED 
PRODUCTS 
HEDGE FUNDS 
OTHER  

10.7%

21.1%
4.4%
39.1%

7.3%

6.4%
7.0%
4.0%

TOTAL PORTFOLIO AT 31 DECEMBER 2016  
CREDIT QUALITY  

$1,840.5
A+

www.lancashiregroup.com 

3

OVERVIEW 
DISCIPLINED  
UNDERWRITING
MAINTAINING 
BALANCE

4 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

UNDERWRITING COMES FIRST

Maintaining the right balance between discipline and creativity 
is key for success. Underwriting discipline in challenging 
markets means we continue to focus on the profitability of our 
book, and therefore produce a market leading combined ratio. 
We remain creative in being able to provide tailored insurance 
and reinsurance products and solutions to our core clients 
across the three platforms of our business.

CONSISTENT COMBINED RATIO 
OUTPERFORMANCE

COMBINED RATIO
The Group’s combined ratio has always been significantly below 100%, 
despite the softening market rates of recent years. The Group has 
consistently achieved combined ratios that have outperformed the market.

76.5%

5 YEAR AVERAGE: 70.3%

76.5

70.2

68.7

72.1

63.9

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

5

OVERVIEW 
REDUCING 
VOLATILITY
MAINTAINING 
BALANCE

6 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

EFFECTIVELY BALANCE RISK AND RETURN

Balancing risk and return means not seeking top line growth  
for the sake of it in markets where we do not believe the right 
opportunities exist. We match our capital to the risk we are 
prepared to underwrite, not the other way around. We bring 
together all our disciplines to look at how different parts of  
our operations are working together. Then we stress test our 
business plans and gauge where we can be most effective 
without undue volatility.

ATTRACTIVE RISK-ADJUSTED TOTAL RETURNS  
OVER THE LONG TERM

RETURN ON EQUITY
A strong result, despite a difficult market and the incidence of risk  
losses, helped by further enhancements in the Group’s outwards 
reinsurance programme.

13.5%

18.9*

16.7*

5 YEAR AVERAGE: 14.8%

13.9*

13.5

10.9*

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

* RoE excluding the impact of warrants was 13.5% in 2015, 14.7% in 2014, 18.9% in 2013 and 17.1% in 2012. The five year average was 15.5%.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

7

OVERVIEW 
REMAINING 
NIMBLE
MAINTAINING  
BALANCE

8 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

OPERATE NIMBLY THROUGH THE CYCLE

Our speed and agility in the way we manage volatility  
help us underwrite our core portfolio profitably through  
the challenges of the cycle, yet seize opportunities when  
they present themselves. As capital continues to enter the  
(re)insurance market, the need to be nimble is more important 
than ever. This means being ready to deploy capital quickly 
when it is needed, and having the discipline to return it when  
it is not.

PROVEN OUTPERFORMANCE IN  
CHALLENGING TIMES

PERCENTAGE OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME RETURNED TO SHAREHOLDERS
The Group continues to exercise the discipline of giving back capital it cannot profitably 
deploy, while maintaining sufficient headroom to take advantage of new opportunities  
as they emerge.

113.3%

5 YEAR 
AVERAGE: 
140.7%

171.4

152.3

187.0

79.7

INCEPTION 
TO DATE: 103.4%*

113.3

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

* The inception to date percentage is calculated on a paid basis; including the final dividend of $0.10, the percentage increases to 104.2%.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

9

OVERVIEW 
CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT

ENSURING
BALANCE

Lancashire’s results, in a challenging 
market, are a testament to our 
steadfast maintenance of our core 
business and disciplined trimming  
of risk, as we prepare for the day  
the market hardens.

PETER CLARKE
Non-Executive Chairman

What were the challenges for the business  
during 2016?

Has Lancashire’s dividend and capital 
management strategy changed?

The insurance business environment has remained difficult 
during 2016, as described elsewhere in this report. Against  
this background I congratulate our management team on  
an excellent set of results. The Board has debated long and 
hard about the implementation of strategy in these difficult 
insurance and investment market environments, and 
unexpected developments in the global political and  
economic spheres have added their own depth and colour  
to this complex picture. We are wholly supportive of Alex and 
his management team in seeking to maintain the Group’s  
core book of business at this challenging point in the 
insurance cycle, whilst managing exposures through prudent 
underwriting and the strategic purchasing of reinsurance.  
This requires experience, discipline, patience and an 
acknowledgement that over the short to medium term the 
returns in our business may be lower than those that we have 
aimed to achieve over the full span of the insurance cycle.

Another challenge and opportunity for the Group during  
2016 was the project to refresh our Lloyd’s business. I explain 
the work that has been done in recruiting new independent 
Non-Executive Directors to the Board of CUL in my introduction 
to the Governance section of this Annual Report and Accounts 
(see page 43), and Alex has described the work that is being 
carried out in refreshing and refocusing the Cathedral 
management and underwriting teams in his review  
(see page 15).

I am pleased that Lancashire has declared ordinary and special 
dividends for the 2016 year amounting in total to $0.90 per 
common share. In the current environment the Board has 
decided to return slightly more than the comprehensive 
income for the year, whilst maintaining more than sufficient 
capital reserves to implement our current underwriting 
strategy. As a business we carefully consider the balance of risk 
and return when setting our capital levels, and this has enabled 
us to return earnings plus a little bit of our risk capital. An 
important element to this active capital management strategy 
is the flexibility afforded to us by shareholders during the last 
five years to issue up to 15 per cent of Lancashire’s shares on a 
non pre-emptive basis. The best opportunities in the insurance 
and reinsurance sectors arise following major loss events, and 
the flexibility afforded by this mechanism (to issue shares and 
raise capital relatively quickly) is a central pillar of our business 
strategy, and will help Lancashire maximise underwriting 
opportunities for the business. Once again the Company is 
seeking shareholder support for resolutions at the 2017 AGM 
allowing this capital management flexibility, and I would 
encourage all shareholders to vote in favour.

10 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Has the UK’s Brexit vote affected  
Lancashire’s business?

Why is Lancashire proposing a change of  
auditors in 2017?

It is fair to say that the outcome of the UK Brexit  
referendum surprised many, and that there will remain  
areas of uncertainty for the next several years. Lancashire’s 
earnings are predominantly in U.S. dollars, so the devaluation 
of Sterling in the wake of the vote had a beneficial outcome for 
our UK investors and was largely neutral for our international 
shareholders. In terms of business flows, the Group has a 
proportionately smaller exposure to European-situated risks 
and insurers than to other geographic areas. I remain confident 
that, whether through our London, Lloyd’s or Bermuda 
offices, Lancashire will continue to have opportunities  
and a range of options to underwrite European risks for  
the foreseeable future. When there is clarity around what 
Brexit really means we will take any necessary actions.

At Lancashire’s 2017 AGM the Board will be proposing  
a resolution to our shareholders to appoint KPMG as our 
external auditors. EY have served as our external auditors since 
Lancashire’s foundation in 2005. As part of our focus on 
strong corporate governance, the Board, led by the Audit 
Committee, conducted a rigorous tender process with several 
audit firms during the spring and summer of 2016 (see page 
54 of the Audit Committee report for more detail). This has 
resulted in the recommendation to appoint KPMG as our 
auditors. I would like to thank all the participating audit  
firms for the time and resources devoted to the process  
and EY for their service over the years.

“We are wholly supportive of Alex and his 
management team in seeking to maintain  
the Group’s core book of business at this 
challenging point in the insurance cycle.”

Peter Clarke
Non-Executive Chairman

What are Lancashire’s expectations for 2017?

Lancashire’s Board has considered the challenges of the 
current market. Within this context the Group has, since its 
inception to the end of 2016, generated compound annual 
RoE, excluding the impact of warrants, of 18.6 per cent  
which exceeds our stated long-term objective of generating  
a risk-adjusted RoE of 13 per cent in excess of the risk-free  
rate over the insurance cycle. The ‘insurance cycle’ is not 
difficult to understand in terms of its drivers and outputs, the 
flows of capital and the economic laws of supply and demand, 
but it is more difficult to define in terms of its expected or 
anticipated duration. What we know is that we are now at a 
point in the insurance cycle where an excess of capital and 
historically low investment returns mean that all disciplined 
insurers are operating on tighter margins and generating 
lower returns than they have done historically. The coming 
year will continue to be about implementing a core defensive 
strategy, ensuring that Lancashire is ready for the day when the 
market hardens. In this environment we expect Lancashire’s 
returns for the near future to be lower than our stated 
cross-cycle objective.

GOVERNANCE STATEMENT
Lancashire strives to implement simple yet effective 
systems of corporate governance in a way that helps 
shape strategy, monitors its implementation, balances 
support and challenge for management and the 
business and embeds a positive and open corporate 
culture throughout the Group.

Total investment return

Dividend yield

2.1%

10.5%

Read pages 20 and 21

www.lancashiregroup.com 

11

OVERVIEW 
OUR BUSINESS MODEL

THREE PLATFORMS
BALANCED BY ONE GOAL

We leverage our deep underwriting expertise with efficient management 
of capital and resources across our three platforms to provide our clients 
and brokers with excellent solutions for their insurance and reinsurance 
needs. We always focus on the risk-adjusted return.

A N C A S H I R E  HOLDINGS LIMITED

L

RESP

O

N

SIBILITY

S
T
N
E
I
L
C

LANCASHIRE

N

R

U

T

E

R

UNDERWRITING

AND CAPITAL

MANAGEMENT

M
A
R
K
E
T
S

CATHEDRAL

KINESIS

R
I
S
K

OUR RESPONSIBILITY
We recognise that our responsibility as a company and as individuals reaches wider than our 
shareholders and our clients. We strive to be a good employer, a good corporate citizen and  
a responsible preserver of resources. Through the Lancashire Foundation, we make financial 
contributions and provide human support to a number of good causes in the places we operate  
and around the world (for further details see pages 36 to 41).

12 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Lancashire

Cathedral

Kinesis

KEY STRENGTHS

•  Strong brand with clients and brokers
•  Recognised for significant capacity and  

•  Manages two active syndicates
•  Strong relationships with clients 

leadership ability in well-defined 
business sectors

•  Proven track record of supplying 
capacity across the cycle with  
consistently high performance
•  A lean business operation allows  
us to remain nimble and make 
decisions efficiently

•  A profitable core book of business and 
disciplined underwriting allows us to 
produce an excellent combined ratio
•  Strong record of capital management 
actions to optimise and adjust capital 
and navigate market cycles

and brokers

•  Recognised for long-term consistency 

of relationships

•  Efficient Lloyd’s capital model allowing 

Cathedral greater premium leverage than 
for rated companies

•  Worldwide licensing maintained  

by Lloyd’s allows Cathedral to write 
business worldwide with limited 
regulatory overheads

•  Use of world’s oldest insurance  

third-party capital – the Names –  
who pay underwriting fees, costs  
and profit commission

•  Experienced management team with  

•  Proven track record with more than three 

proven ability

years under Lancashire ownership

•  Experienced, fully dedicated 

management with strong relationships 
with clients, brokers and investors

•  Ability to leverage Group data, 

relationships and reputation with 
investors and clients

•  Highly specialised multi-class product 
with barriers to entry in terms of data 
and modeling expertise

•  Ability to raise and deploy capital quickly
•  Expanding investor base following  

a strong underwriting performance  
since the first capital raise in 2014
•  Proven track record with Kinesis now  

in its fourth year

GOALS

•  Maintain key client, broker and reinsurer 
relationships to ensure the continued 
flow of business

in a climate of ever increasing  
competition

•  Continue the use of reinsurance 

•  Continue to look for new opportunities 

solutions to uphold risk-adjusted balance 
in softening markets

for bolt on business lines in both  
syndicates

•  Maintain core portfolios in the syndicates 

•  Ensure product is correctly calibrated  

to meet clients’ needs in terms of 
responding to events and providing 
capital relief

•  Deliver returns in line with expectations 
for modeled ranges given market losses 
and pricing

•  Leverage the Group’s balance sheet and 

cross-sell where opportunities arise

•  Continue to increase investor club  

members

•  Provide bespoke and flexible products  

to match investor appetite

•  Retain ‘underwriting comes first’ culture  
and discipline without being tempted 
into innovation or diversification for  
its own sake

RISKS

•  Influx of new capacity, and further 

•  Pressure on signings and participation 

•  Increased competition from traditional 

development of broker facilities with less 
robust underwriting controls

•  Continuing rate pressures in softening  

markets

given relatively small line sizes

•  Expanded burden of regulatory oversight 
or overlapping regulation from Lloyd’s, 
the PRA and the FCA

•  Widening terms and conditions being  
accepted by the insurance market 
without adequate pricing or exclusions

and collateralised markets, with attempts 
to replicate the Kinesis product

•  Possible waning of investor interest in 
insurance allocations as interest rates 
begin to increase and yields return to 
capital markets

•  Resistance to complex reinsurance 

products amongst clients, given cheap 
availability of traditional products

RETURN

72.5%

83.7%

0.8%

Lancashire Companies’ combined ratio

Cathedral’s combined ratio

Kinesis contribution to Group RoE

www.lancashiregroup.com 

13

OVERVIEW 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REVIEW

BALANCING
RISK AND 
REWARD

Good underwriting remains 
paramount, as does our ability to 
act quickly and nimbly to changing 
conditions and our preparedness to 
closely match our capital to the 
opportunities available to us.

RETURN ON EQUITY

13.5%

COMBINED RATIO

76.5%

PROFIT AFTER TAX

$153.8m

Did Lancashire perform as you expected in 2016?

We’ve had a good set of results for 2016 with an RoE of 
13.5 per cent and a combined ratio of 76.5 per cent. Whilst 
these figures are the product of our disciplined underwriting 
and risk selection, they do tend to mask a difficult trading 
environment. I have spoken regularly about the current 
over-supply of capital and the resulting imbalance which  
this generates, leading to downwards pressure on pricing  
and coverage terms within the international insurance and 
reinsurance markets. Those conditions persisted in 2016, 
influenced in part by another year of modest catastrophe 
losses across the insurance industry. There has been little sign 
of improvement as we enter 2017, other than some evidence  
of a slowing of the rate of decline in pricing, principally in  
the property catastrophe reinsurance lines.

14 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

ALEX MALONEY
Group Chief Executive Officer

Are these market conditions ‘the new normal’?

I firmly believe that the insurance business is cyclical. We are 
now trading through what I consider to be a low point in the 
cycle. For a moment in early October 2016 the world watched 
as Hurricane Matthew caused devastation and tragic loss of life. 
It moved through the Caribbean to then skirt along the Florida 
coast and make landfall in South Carolina. As events developed 
the trajectory took the storm towards less densely populated 
areas. What might have been a major loss to the industry, in 
excess of those losses we have seen in recent years, in fact 
caused insured losses of a more attritional nature. There was 
erosion of earnings rather than serious capital impairment. 
However, Matthew illustrates that the market is operating  
at the very margins of profitability and that any material 
catastrophe loss could result in meaningful capital impairment. 
Macro-economic conditions and capital flows will change and 
catastrophe loss events will occur. Sooner or later the balance 
of capital and underwriting opportunity will readjust.

Has Lancashire’s strategy changed in the face of 
the current market challenges?

Lancashire’s strategy has remained constant, but our  
tactical implementation of strategy has changed over time,  
to rebalance the risk and return equation, to address current 
market conditions. Our strategy remains: to balance the risk 
that we assume against the potential return; to exercise our 
experience and be professional in our underwriting; and to 
demonstrate nimble capital management throughout the 
insurance cycle. During 2016 this meant that our underwriters 
worked hard to service the ongoing needs of our clients, whilst 

“Our business is equipped with the right expertise 
and relationships, with our clients, their brokers 
and our capital providers, to remain a relevant 
and important provider of insurance and 
reinsurance solutions, wherever we find 
ourselves in the insurance cycle.”

showing discipline on both pricing and terms of coverage. On 
the other side of the equation, reinsurance can be an efficient 
form of capital management which allows us to maintain or 
reduce our aggregate risk exposures. This inevitably depresses 
returns in the current market, but I am confident that our 
tactical implementation of strategy will enable Lancashire to 
manage this stage of the cycle, protect its balance sheet, and 
meet the challenge of the next market moving event, when it 
does come. Our business is equipped with the right expertise 
and relationships, with our clients, their brokers and our capital 
providers, to remain a relevant and important provider of 
insurance and reinsurance solutions, wherever we find 
ourselves in the insurance cycle.

What are your plans for Lancashire’s Lloyd’s 
platform for the coming year?

In late December 2016 we welcomed Jon Barnes as the new 
designated Active Underwriter for Syndicate 2010, and last 
autumn we appointed John Spence as the Active Underwriter 
for Syndicate 3010. We have also appointed a further four  
new underwriters, Heather McKinlay as the CUL CFO,  
Emma Woolley as CUL’s Director of Compliance and we have 
promoted Adam Beardon to the role of CUL CRO. Andrew 
McKee will join as the new CEO for our Lloyd’s business in 
June 2017. I am particularly pleased to have attracted individuals 
of such high calibre, as it demonstrates Lancashire’s ability  
not only to cultivate home grown talent but also to attract  
the very best people from across the industry. Peter Clarke  
has described the parallel work which has been carried out  
in renewing and refreshing the CUL Board (see page 43). 
Therefore, as we enter 2017, Cathedral continues to be a 
Lloyd’s business not only with a reputation for its underwriting 
expertise, client service and ability to generate returns for its 
investors, but with a reinvigorated board, management and 
business team more closely aligned to Lancashire’s thinking 
and strategic objectives. These changes have not come easily, 
but the work of rebuilding has begun to create a business with 
more open lines of communication, better integrated strategic 
thinking and improved management and governance.

Does Lancashire remain distinctive?

We are still different to our competitors. Lancashire has had 
some excellent results over many years, but my management 
team is not interested in accolades, rather in identifying the 
challenges of the present moment and doing what needs to be 
done quickly and effectively. Our headcount remains around 
200 globally and that helps promote a very lean and nimble 
business culture. Without cutting corners we still have the 
ability to move very quickly to develop opportunities and/or 
address areas of risk. There is a ‘can do’ attitude amongst our 
employees who like our culture and working environment and 
the financial rewards and career opportunities that they can 
bring. I also believe that our business structure, with respected 
Lancashire (re)insurance operating companies in London and 
Bermuda, our Lloyd’s platform and the Kinesis third-party 
capital management facility, gives us the ability to trade on  
at least equal terms with competitors who may operate far 
more complex and intrinsically costly businesses.

What are the biggest threats and opportunities  
for Lancashire?

I have already spoken about the corrosive effect of excess 
capital in our sector. There has been much debate around the 
threat of ‘disruptors’ within the insurance industry, whether 
that is through alternative technologies, forms of distribution, 
underwriting or capital. Change in one form or another is  
a certainty, but I believe that Lancashire’s commitment to 
offering bespoke, tailored specialty insurance products to our 
clients will help mitigate these threats. The ability to add value 
in a transaction and to service client requirements will remain 
central to our future success. To that end we will continue  
to service and protect our core book of business and seek to 
retain and reward all those people who are key to the success 
of our operations. This requires patience and discipline.  
The last couple of years have seen instances of insurance 
businesses effectively changing themselves through mergers 
and rationalisation of existing operations. That approach may 
buy time for some. However, the insurance industry cannot 
afford to operate on such tight margins over the longer term, 
in particular faced with the threat of a material upturn in 
global insured catastrophe losses, which will materialise sooner 
or later. Lancashire is ready for that moment of opportunity.

Alex Maloney
Group Chief Executive Officer

www.lancashiregroup.com 

15

STRATEGY 
OUR STRATEGY

MAINTAINING
CONSISTENCY

OUR STRATEGY
The Group executes its strategy by concentrating on three strategic priorities that  
enable the Group to meet its goal of maximising risk-adjusted returns for shareholders: 
underwriting comes first; effectively balance risk and return; and operate nimbly through 
the cycle. These strategic priorities enable the Group to serve clients and brokers with 
significant capacity across the cycle, not just in the core business the Group aims to renew 
every year, but also in times or in areas where capacity is scarce: the opportunistic part of 
the Group’s portfolio. The Group maintains a lean structure and keeps overheads under 
strict control so that resources may be refocused quickly. The Group tests its assumptions 
and performance constantly through its structure using its daily underwriting calls or 
exception reporting to management, its fortnightly RRC meeting with all disciplines 
within the Group represented, and a series of supporting committees at management 
and Board levels. The Group’s risk function and internal audit supply challenge  
and assurance to management and the Boards through a simple and continuous 
reporting process.

Description

UNDERWRITING COMES FIRST

We focus on maintaining our portfolio 
structure, with the bulk of our exposures 
balanced towards market moving events, and  
a strong commitment to core clients. We use  
the principle of peer review throughout the 
Group, usually pre-underwriting for LICL,  
LUK and Kinesis, the platforms that accept 
larger net exposures, and post-underwriting at 
Cathedral, with its much smaller net exposures.

EFFECTIVELY BALANCE RISK AND RETURN

By bringing together all our disciplines 
– underwriting, actuarial, modeling, finance, 
treasury, risk and operations – at our fortnightly 
RRC meetings, we are able to look at how 
different parts of our operations are working 
together. We stress test our business plans and 
gauge where we can be most effective without 
undue volatility.

OPERATE NIMBLY THROUGH THE CYCLE

As capital continues to accumulate in the  
(re)insurance market, the need to be nimble  
is more important than ever. This means  
being ready to deploy capital quickly when 
it is needed, and having the discipline to  
return it when it is not.

Underwriting  
comes first

Operate nimbly 
through the cycle

Effectively balance 
risk and return

Cross-cycle  
return of risk-free plus 13%

Profitable 4 years out of 5

Peak-zone  
PML limits  of 25% of capital

SHAREHOLDER 
RETURN

OUR CULTURE – THE BEDROCK OF OUR STRATEGY
Lancashire encourages a culture of cooperation and respect based on open 
challenge. This can be seen clearly in the LICL and LUK daily underwriting and 
marketing call where junior and senior underwriters debate the risks they want to 
write and their fit to the portfolio and market. It also characterises the Group-wide 
RRC which brings together underwriting, actuarial, modeling, finance, treasury, 
risk and operations to challenge the assumptions used in all areas of our business.

16 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Description

Achievements

Performance

Associated strategic risks

UNDERWRITING COMES FIRST

We focus on maintaining our portfolio 

structure, with the bulk of our exposures 

balanced towards market moving events, and  

a strong commitment to core clients. We use  

the principle of peer review throughout the 

Group, usually pre-underwriting for LICL,  

LUK and Kinesis, the platforms that accept 

larger net exposures, and post-underwriting at 

Cathedral, with its much smaller net exposures.

EFFECTIVELY BALANCE RISK AND RETURN

By bringing together all our disciplines 

– underwriting, actuarial, modeling, finance, 

treasury, risk and operations – at our fortnightly 

RRC meetings, we are able to look at how 

different parts of our operations are working 

together. We stress test our business plans and 

gauge where we can be most effective without 

undue volatility.

OPERATE NIMBLY THROUGH THE CYCLE

As capital continues to accumulate in the  

(re)insurance market, the need to be nimble  

is more important than ever. This means  

being ready to deploy capital quickly when 

it is needed, and having the discipline to  

return it when it is not.

KPI

We have reduced our written 
premium and PMLs by turning 
down under-priced business,  
whilst retaining our core book.

We have grown the number of 
Kinesis investors and the number 
of cedants to double figures.

At 1 January 2017 Cathedral was 
successful in renewing its business, 
despite intense competition.

COMBINED RATIO

GROSS PREMIUMS WRITTEN

76.5%

A market leading combined 
ratio, even in difficult 
markets, evidencing  
the continued focus on 
underwriting, superior  
risk selection and  
portfolio construction.

$633.9m

We focused on protecting  
our core portfolios, but 
maintained the discipline  
to decline or re-structure  
our participation on 
under-priced or poorly 
performing business.

The key risk in the current market 
phase is the loss of relevance to 
brokers and clients. With so much 
surplus capacity, insurers need to 
have a unique selling point. For 
the Group, that is found in its 
mixture of underwriting capacity, 
leadership capability, significant 
reinsurance expenditure and 
multiple balance sheet options.

We have had to reduce income  
in some areas of our business in 
response to a weakening market. 
However, we have been able  
to find substantial outwards 
reinsurance opportunities that 
allowed us to mitigate some of  
the effects of price reductions,  
and reduce our net exposures 
until the time is right for us to 
retain more risk.

Lancashire renewed its 15 per cent 
disapplication of pre-emption 
rights at the 2016 AGM to assist 
potential future capital raises.

KPI

RETURN ON EQUITY

PROBABLE MAXIMUM LOSS

13.5%

A good result despite a 
challenging market and  
the incidence of risk  
losses, helped by our 
improved outwards 
reinsurance programme.

$157.5m*

We continued to reduce our 
exposure to key catastrophe 
perils as the market has 
become more competitive, 
demonstrating our discipline 
and nimbleness.

*  1 in 100 year Gulf of Mexico Hurricane 
expected net loss at 1 January 2017.

KPI

KPI

The key issue for Lancashire is to 
continue to serve our clients and 
brokers with significant capacity, 
whilst ensuring that the portfolio 
is balanced. This means constantly 
re-assessing our business mix, and 
testing key risk assumptions.

PERCENTAGE OF 
COMPREHENSIVE  
INCOME RETURNED  
TO SHAREHOLDERS

113.3%

Lancashire continues to 
exercise the discipline of 
giving back capital it cannot 
profitably deploy, but remains 
open to new opportunities.

     Read more on page 21
KPI

DIVIDEND YIELD

10.5%

Whilst buying back shares  
can be a part of right-sizing 
capital, special dividends 
allow the Group to make 
substantial capital 
adjustments when  
these are justified.

Lancashire has developed an 
expectation among its shareholders 
that it will produce a consistent 
return and pay ordinary dividends 
and special dividends when  
it makes sense to do so. All 
shareholders understand that  
in hard markets Lancashire will 
retain, and even raise, capital  
to take full advantage of 
underwriting opportunities.

Read about our Risk Management on 
page 31

www.lancashiregroup.com 

17

STRATEGY 
FINANCIAL REVIEW

MAINTAINING STRONG
PERFORMANCE

How has Lancashire maintained balance  
during 2016?

In the current phase of the cycle there are many factors to 
consider – it really is a bit of a balancing act. We want to have 
enough capital to be able to write the deals we think still look 
attractive, while managing broker and client relationships to 
decline those we do not. We don’t want to carry too much 
capital, but in the current environment we are a little defensive 
and carry a bit more of a buffer than we typically would. There 
is a lot of uncertainty in the markets just now. That uncertainty 
also impacts our investment portfolio, but we continue to 
ignore the noise and invest for the longer term, protecting  
our capital and making tactical adjustments as necessary. On 
the expense side, we have always chosen to be leanly staffed  
so we are appropriately structured for all aspects of the cycle. 
With only two physical locations in Bermuda and London we 
are also better able to communicate and respond more quickly 
than some larger international companies might. It’s a careful 
balance, but one that is paying off.

So how would you sum up 2016 performance?

2016 has been another year of attrition hurting the industry –  
a number of events have impacted the market, but none have 
been large enough either individually or collectively to drive 
any meaningful change in pricing, let alone a hardening of  
the market. We have continued to focus on both superior  
risk selection and our core clients’ needs, while managing our 
exposures through reinsurance. We increased our reinsurance 
spend again this year, taking advantage of well-priced 
opportunities there. While there is undeniably a cost to that, 
we have reaped the benefits of increased recoveries this year, 
particularly on our energy book. On a risk-adjusted basis we 
are still able to produce an acceptable return, yet manage our 
downside risk. Our RoE for the year was 13.5 per cent and  
our combined ratio, excluding fee income, was 76.5 per cent. 
Including fee income our combined ratio was 72.3 per cent. 
Lancashire contributed 9.1 per cent to our RoE, with Cathedral 
and Kinesis contributing 3.6 per cent and 0.8 per cent 
respectively. In short, it’s a strong performance in 
difficult markets.

Are the Group’s three platforms performing in line  
with expectations?

The short answer is yes. The original Lancashire (London and 
Bermuda) platform continues to produce the majority of the 
Group’s return. When we purchased Cathedral in November 
2013, we said we expected it to contribute 2 to 3 per cent per 
annum to our RoE. Ignoring acquisition adjustments in the 
earlier years, it is actually exceeding those expectations. Kinesis 
is opportunity driven and could get to a size where it also 

ELAINE WHELAN
Group Chief Financial Officer

Both insurance and investment markets 
continue to be challenging, but we have 
remained patient and maintained our 
discipline. That has produced an RoE  
of 13.5 per cent, a combined ratio of  
76.5 per cent and an investment return 
of 2.1 per cent: strong performance  
in a tough environment.

18 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Gross premiums written
Net premiums written
Net premiums earned
Net insurance losses
Net underwriting income
Net investment income
Net realised (losses) gains and impairments
Net operating profit
Profit after tax 
Net change in unrealised gains/losses on investments
Comprehensive income 
Dividends1
Diluted earnings per share
Diluted operating earnings per share
Fully converted book value per share
Return on equity
Return on equity excluding warrant adjustments
Net loss ratio
Net acquisition cost ratio
Expense ratio
Combined ratio
Accident year loss ratio 
Net total return on investments2

(1)  Dividends are included in the financial statement year in which they were recorded.
(2)  Net return on investments includes internal foreign exchange hedge.

contributes 2 to 3 per cent to our RoE, but that’s a hard 
market contribution. We currently expect around 1.0 per cent, 
subject to loss performance and collateral releases. It is 
currently performing right in line with those expectations.

How have the departures of Cathedral employees 
impacted financial performance?

Well we haven’t lost any business as a result of the departures, 
but did incur some costs early in 2016 – about $1.7 million. 
We’ve fully re-staffed now and expect the ongoing cost base  
for Cathedral to be pretty stable. There were a number of RSS 
awards granted to certain Cathedral employees on acquisition 
– a total of £18.7 million. A large portion of those have been, 
or will be, forfeited as individuals have left, or are leaving, prior 
to vesting. Of the original awards issued, only £6.4 million 
remain for future exercise. While the forfeits don’t impact  
RoE there is a benefit to EPS and also simply an economic 
benefit from no longer having to settle those awards or the 
dividend equivalents on them.

How does the decline in Sterling impact  
the business?

As a U.S. dollar company, with about 60 to 70 per cent of our 
cost base in Sterling, we will see some benefit from the fall in 
Sterling. The extent of that obviously depends on how low 

2016 
$m
633.9
 458.7
488.1
142.5
213.5
 29.8
(2.4)
144.0
 153.8
 4.1
157.9
 178.9
 $0.76
$0.71
$5.98
 13.5%
 13.5%
29.2%
27.1%
20.2%
76.5%
46.2%
2.1%

2015 
$m
641.1
481.7
567.1
155.7
265.2
29.8
(2.8)
173.4
181.1
(11.3)
169.8
317.5
$0.91
$0.87
$6.07
10.9%
13.5% 
27.5%
25.8%
18.8%
72.1%
46.0%
0.7%

2014 
$m
907.6
742.8
715.6
226.5
335.7
28.6
(5.9)
231.9
229.3
(2.1)
227.2
321.0
$1.16
$1.17
$6.96
13.9%
14.7% 
31.7%
21.4%
15.6%
68.7%
35.9%
1.0%

2013 
$m
679.7
557.6
568.1
188.1
254.2
25.4
12.6
184.2
222.5
(32.5)
190.0
325.6
$1.17
$0.97
$7.50
18.9%
18.9% 
33.1%
22.1%
15.0%
70.2%
36.1%
0.3%

2012 
$m
724.3
576.1
582.6
174.1
289.1
32.5
11.8
220.3
234.9
17.8
252.7
201.4
$1.29
$1.21
$7.83
16.7%
17.1% 
29.9%
20.5%
13.5%
63.9%
34.6%
3.1%

Sterling falls and for how long. For the 2016 financial year,  
as compared to 2015, we have a saving of approximately 
$10.0 million in our operating expenses.

How has capital been managed in 2016?

Our capital philosophy remains unchanged. We work out what 
business we want to write, and then we work out the capital we 
need to support that. We add a buffer and any excess beyond 
that buffer is returned to shareholders. As I mentioned, 
occasionally we will hold a little more of a buffer in times of 
market stress or where we think there may be an impact from 
other external factors that are out of our control. We are 
currently carrying a little more of a buffer than we typically 
would as we think 2017 is going to be an interesting year in a 
number of respects. Even with that buffer, we have returned  
a total of $178.9 million this year or 113.3 per cent of 
comprehensive income. That’s a dividend yield of 10.5 per 
cent. Including the dividend declared on 15 February 2017,  
our capital return since inception stands at $2.7 billion or 
104.2 per cent of comprehensive income.

Elaine Whelan
Group Chief Financial Officer

www.lancashiregroup.com 

19

PERFORMANCE 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

RETURN ON EQUITY*

COMBINED RATIO

TOTAL INVESTMENT RETURN

Aim

The Group’s aim is to provide 
shareholders with a risk-adjusted return 
on equity of 13 per cent in excess of the 
risk-free rate over the longer term.

The Group aims to price its business to  
ensure that the combined ratio in any  
year is significantly less than 100 per cent.

The Group’s primary investment 
objectives are to preserve capital and 
provide adequate liquidity to support  
the Group’s payment of claims and other 
obligations. Within this framework we  
aim for a degree of investment 
portfolio growth.

Measurement

The return on equity is measured by 
management as the internal rate of return 
of the increase in fully converted book 
value per share in the period, adjusted 
for dividends.

The combined ratio is the ratio of costs to  
net premiums earned and is a measure of an 
insurance company’s operating performance. 
It is calculated as the sum of the loss ratio, the 
acquisition cost ratio and the expense ratio. 
These ratios are defined in our glossary.

Total investment return measures 
investment income and net realised  
and unrealised gains and losses  
produced by the Group’s managed 
investment portfolio.

Performance 13.5%

76.5%

2.1%

18.9*

16.7*

5 year average*

13.9*

13.5

10.9*

70.2

68.7

72.1

76.5

3.1

63.9

12

13

14

15

16

12

13

14

15

16

12

2.1

1.0

0.7

14

15

16

0.3
13

Risk  
management

Our market in 2016 remained in a soft 
phase. We recognise that whilst we have 
attained very high RoEs in the recent 
past, at this stage of the cycle we cannot 
expect to earn such high returns. But  
we continue to focus on getting the best 
risk-adjusted return for our shareholders. 
In 2016 we continued to buy more 
reinsurance and retrocession protection 
to reduce our exposures to protect our 
balance sheet for the eventual market turn.

The stated aim is a long-term goal, 
acknowledging that management expects 
both higher and lower results in the 
shorter term. The cyclicality and volatility 
of the insurance market is expected to be 
the largest driver of this pattern. We seek 
to align our variable remuneration to 
shareholders’ interests by having an  
RoE component in this.

Please refer to the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report on page 69  
for further details.

Whilst the combined ratio in 2016 was  
above the five-year average, it was still an 
excellent result compared to some typical 
market combined ratios above the 90 per cent 
mark. In the context of a softening market  
and corresponding downward pressure on 
premiums, we would expect the combined 
ratio to increase.

In 2016, Lancashire continued to monitor 
risk-on/risk-off volatility and maintained 
the allocation to risk assets in the surplus 
portfolio as a hedge against the interest 
rate risk inherent in the significant  
fixed maturity allocation of the portfolio. 
However, given the liquidity and duration 
needs of the business, the composition of 
the core portfolio is unchanged.

The Group’s underwriters assess likely losses, 
using models, their experience and knowledge 
of past loss experience, industry trends and 
current circumstances. This allows them to 
estimate the premiums sufficient to meet likely 
losses and expenses. Peer reviews of risks are 
conducted through the daily underwriting  
call or peer review, depending on risk impact, 
enabling the Group to ensure careful risk 
selection, limits on concentration and 
appropriate portfolio diversification. The RRC 
then monitors performance at a portfolio level. 

The investment strategy places an 
emphasis on the preservation of invested 
assets and provision of sufficient liquidity 
for the prompt payment of claims, in 
conjunction with providing a reasonably 
stable income stream. These objectives  
are reflected in the Group’s investment 
guidelines and its conservative asset 
allocation. Management reviews the 
composition, duration and asset allocation 
of the investment portfolio on a regular 
basis in order to respond to changes in 
interest rates and other market conditions. 

* RoE excluding the impact of warrants was 13.5% in 2015, 14.7% in 2014, 18.9% in 2013 and 17.1% in 2012. The five-year average was 15.5%.

20 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN

The Group’s aim is to maximise RoE  
over the longer term and we would  
expect that to be reflected in our share 
price and multiple. This is a long-term 
goal, recognising that the cyclicality and 
volatility of both the insurance market  
and the financial markets in general will 
impact management’s ability to maximise 
the share multiple in the immediate term.

Total shareholder return is measured in 
terms of the internal rate of return of the 
increase/decrease in share price in the 
period, measured in U.S. dollars and 
adjusted for dividends.

PERCENTAGE OF COMPREHENSIVE 
INCOME RETURNED TO 
SHAREHOLDERS 

The Group aims to carry the right level  
of capital to match attractive underwriting 
opportunities, utilising an optimal mix  
of capital tools. Over time, through 
pro-active and flexible capital management 
across the cycle, we aim to generate 
optimum returns for shareholders.

The percentage of comprehensive 
income returned to shareholders equals 
the total capital returned to shareholders 
through dividends and share repurchases 
paid in a given year, divided by the 
Group’s comprehensive income.

DIVIDEND YIELD 

The Group aims to maintain a strong balance 
sheet whilst generating an attractive risk-adjusted 
return for shareholders. Lancashire’s dividend 
yield demonstrates our ability to operate nimbly 
through the cycle through the active capital 
management that underpins our business model. 
We pay annual ordinary dividends, and when  
we cannot utilise our profits by retaining  
them as additional capital we return them  
to shareholders by way of special dividends.

Dividend yield is measured by dividing the 
annual dividends per share by the share price  
on the last day of the given year.

2.4%

113.3%

10.5%

Aim

Measurement

Performance

21.6

21.3

25.9

187.0

171.4

152.3

2.4

79.7

17.8

17.3

113.3

12.3

8.3

5 year average

10.5

-24.2

12

13

14

15

16

12

13

14

15

16

12

13

14

15

16

Volatility in the markets, continued 
insurance M&A activity and the UK Brexit 
vote have all impacted the U.S. dollar 
share price in 2016.

In view of the current market outlook 
Lancashire took the decision to return 
surplus capital to shareholders due to the 
lack of opportunities meeting internal 
hurdles outside the core book.

During 2016 we paid annual ordinary dividends 
of $0.15 per share and a special dividend of  
$0.75 per share.

The Lancashire remuneration structure 
and share scheme ensure that staff are 
highly motivated and closely aligned to 
the Group’s goals, and therefore with 
shareholders. Permanent staff are all 
eligible to receive RSS awards. The 
participation of employees in the RSS 
ensures that there is a strong focus on 
sustainable long-term shareholder value.

Risk tolerances are set at a level that aims 
to prevent the Group incurring losses that 
would impair its ability to operate. The 
Group’s key capital measure is its A.M. 
Best rating, and a minimum rating of 
A– is considered necessary to attract 
business. In 2016, Lancashire maintained 
its A rating.

As capital continues to accumulate in the  
(re)insurance market, the need to be nimble  
is more important than ever. This means being 
ready to deploy capital quickly when it is needed 
and having the discipline to return it when  
it is not. The Group has to ensure that all 
shareholders understand that in hard markets 
the Group will want to retain, and even raise, 
capital to take full advantage of 
underwriting opportunities.

Risk  
management

KPI linked to Executive Directors’ remuneration. For more information see pages 61 to 79.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

21

PERFORMANCE 
UNDERWRITING REVIEW

BALANCING THE CYCLE
DELIVERING RETURNS

PROPERTY REINSURANCE
The trend of recent years continued in the reinsurance 
industry with an absence of significant monetary losses in the 
sector. Mother Nature was certainly not quiet, with earthquakes 
in Italy, New Zealand, Japan and Ecuador, hurricanes and 
storms in the U.S. and the Caribbean and wildfires in Canada. 
Whilst these events sadly led to loss of life, the financial impact 
to the industry was relatively modest, and certainly not at the 
levels required to change market conditions. None of the 
aforementioned events created industry losses in excess of 
$5 billion. This prolonged period of historically benign loss 
activity has meant that the property reinsurance market 
continues to be a challenging environment in which to 
operate. Despite a general realisation that macro-market 
margins are too tight to sustain any real uptick in loss frequency 
or severity, the levels of competitive pressure dictate that rates 
continue to fall, albeit the pace of change is certainly slowing. 
Notwithstanding these conditions, our portfolio of property 
reinsurance risk across the Group continues to perform well, 
acknowledging of course the benign loss environment. In 
these difficult trading conditions leveraging the strong client 
and broker relationships we have across the Group becomes 
even more important, so being better and more efficient with 
our Group offering will only benefit the underwriting result.

ENERGY
The ‘perfect storm’ of 2015 meant that the waters remained 
very choppy throughout 2016. The oil price stabilised 
somewhat and the retraction of demand was certainly less 
severe than the prior year. However, the demand and 
supply imbalance remained in 2016, hence the continuation  
of extremely challenging market conditions. In the space of 
24 months, the premium into the upstream energy market  
has more than halved due to both rate reductions and demand 
slippage. The poor loss experience of 2015 continued through 
2016 with a number of small to medium-sized losses as well as 
what could be the largest upstream energy loss since Deepwater 
Horizon in 2010. In summary, the last two years in the upstream 
energy market have been challenging, with premium 
haemorrhaging from the market and loss activity increasing in 
both frequency and severity. That said, the Group is fortunate 
to have relationships with strong and well-run companies, and 
as a result has been able to weather the storm. A continued 
focus on risk selection and being unconcerned about top line 
premium helps deliver underlying results that outperform the 
macro-market metrics. Energy has always been a core pillar of 
the Group’s strategy and will continue to be so. We understand 
and accept that the energy market is a volatile place but remain 
committed to both the market and, more importantly, our 
clients and their brokers. Together we will work through these 
tougher times and come out the other side stronger as a result.

PAUL GREGORY
Group Chief Underwriting Officer

2016 was a turbulent year. The volatility 
within the market and its softening 
conditions made for an environment that 
required careful navigation. The Lancashire 
Group has the underwriting teams, with the 
appropriate client and broker relationships, 
to balance these factors while delivering 
strong returns.

22 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

TERRORISM, POLITICAL VIOLENCE AND POLITICAL RISKS
The world was a volatile place during 2016 with a continuation 
of uncertainty and instability across the globe. Sadly, the 
activity of certain terrorist groups shows no signs of ceasing 
and the world witnessed atrocities during 2016. These included 
numerous well publicised attacks across Europe in France, 
Germany and Belgium as well as a continuation of wars in 
various countries including Ukraine, Syria and Yemen. In 
addition to this, there have been the perceived seismic political 
events of Brexit and the U.S. elections which create a world of 
increased uncertainty. This creates challenges for underwriting 
the terrorism and political risk classes of business. However, 
the events of recent years have not created any significant 
losses to the insurance market, and therefore capacity has 
continued to enter the class, creating more competition.  
We accept that ultimately it is demand and supply that dictate 
market direction and unfortunately the market will not correct 
itself purely based upon the logic of being in a more unstable 
political environment. Given this, risk selection remains 
paramount and, as with other classes of business, we have  
built up a profitable core portfolio of business which is ours to 
defend and which is far easier than trying to build out a new 
portfolio in a challenging market. We continue to choose not 
to support broker facilities whereby we are required to ‘give 
our pen away’, something that we will continue to resist as long 
as possible in order to maintain our underwriting standards 
and therefore control the risk we put onto our consolidated 
balance sheet. The Group uses its ability to offer significant 
capacity across multiple platforms to ensure it is providing 
both clients and brokers with a fully rounded product and 
service which allows it to maintain its underwriting principles 
despite the many challenges the markets contain.

PROPERTY DIRECT & FACULTATIVE
Much like the property reinsurance portfolio, the direct 
property market has seen a number of small events impact the 
profitability of the class. The Canadian wildfires and Hurricane 
Matthew are the most obvious examples, but nothing sufficient 
to create a market dislocation and positive change to the rating 
environment. Therefore the property insurance market 
remains competitive, albeit different parts of the market are 
experiencing different levels of competition, and this is 
highlighted within our portfolio. The Group’s portfolio is 
made up of two parts, commercial open market property  
risks and binders. The market conditions of this sector are 
predominantly driven by the demand and supply dynamics 
within the class, more so than any other external factors  
that you may see in other classes. Over the past few years the 
appetite of the insurance market for open market business  
has increased dramatically and consequently that part of the 
market has witnessed intense competitive pressures, driving 
rates downwards. This part of the Group’s portfolio reduced 
through the course of 2016, as underwriting discipline was 
maintained and risks that no longer met the return hurdles 
were declined. Where possible, facultative reinsurance is used 
to modify the impact of market conditions and help the Group 
maintain long-standing client relationships, but this is not 
always possible. In contrast, the binder portfolio has been  

far less competitive and more stable and now forms a larger 
part of the overall portfolio as the rate reductions are far less 
severe and the long-standing nature of client relationships 
means there is less pressure on each risk. The dual impact of  
a reducing open market book and a consistent binder book 
creates a portfolio where, for the first time in many years,  
the binder percentage of the portfolio will be greater than  
the open market risks. This is expected in the softer part  
of the cycle and it demonstrates the value of the consistently 
performing binder book as it allows the Group to maintain its 
underwriting discipline on the open market risks. When the 
market environment changes this trend will likely reverse,  
but in the softer market this allows the portfolio to maintain 
its profitability.

MARINE
The cargo market can be seen as the barometer for world 
trade and if there is economic uncertainty then demand  
will be impacted. This has certainly been the case in recent 
years. Market conditions, as in all other lines of business,  
are competitive with a surplus of capacity. However, the core 
portfolio of business has been defended, rate reductions have 
been manageable, and the portfolio profitable. Without the 
pressure to grow top line income, the portfolio is stable  
and will ebb and flow with both the demand and rating 
environment. The hull, builders’ risk and war portfolios are 
historically very stable portfolios of business that have changed 
very little since the inception of the Group. Much like the 
cargo portfolio, the size of this book will rise and fall in line 
with market conditions and, once again, the profitable 
portfolio of risks has been defended. Whilst market conditions 
remain as they are, the underwriting appetite will not change. 
Making an underwriting profit in marine classes is historically 
the exception rather than the rule, and we intend to remain 
the exception.

AVIATION
The Group underwrites both aviation insurance and 
reinsurance, and both markets are extremely challenging. 
During 2014 and 2015, losses to the aviation markets increased 
in frequency and severity. 2016 had fewer and less severe 
market losses. Rates continue to be under pressure but in some 
areas of the class it is starting to feel like the bottom may be 
getting close, albeit we are not there yet. In the aviation war 
market for example, the broker line slips that are so prevalent 
to the class no longer have the same levels of capacity available 
to them. That means that more risks have to come to the  
open market underwriters who tend to resist the trend for 
deteriorating pricing. It is small changes like this that can start 
to make a difference to the market dynamics. That said, like 
any other market, until such time as the demand and supply 
dynamic changes, the market conditions will not change 
fundamentally. So until this happens, we continue to focus  
on risk selection and protecting our portfolio of risks with 
appropriate reinsurance. Given the team we have throughout 
the Group, we certainly have the expertise to maximise any 
opportunity that may arise in the future.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

23

PERFORMANCE 
BUSINESS REVIEW

STRIKING A
BALANCE

HAYLEY JOHNSTON
Chief Underwriting Officer, LUK

SYLVAIN PERRIER
Chief Underwriting Officer, LICL

Striking a balance during a difficult year  
for underwriting.

24 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT AND OUTLOOK
2016 was yet another difficult year for underwriting as we  
are now firmly in the soft phase of the underwriting cycle.  
Our strategy has remained unchanged as we are working to 
maintain our long-term profitable underwriting relationships 
whilst managing our outwards exposure through the purchase 
of well-priced, targeted reinsurance.

Our business model was always designed with the knowledge 
that we have to cater for all phases of the cycle. A solid return 
on equity and an excellent combined ratio have been achieved 
during 2016 and allowed us to return profits, based on our 
continued commitment to focusing first on our underwriting 
and our capital management.

Our outlook for 2017 is a continuation of current market 
trends. However, we expect to be able to continue to maintain 
our core book and consequently operate to a similar capital 
level as 2016, albeit with a bit more of a buffer than we 
normally carry given the current environment.

RENEWAL PRICE INDEX (RPI)
Lancashire’s RPI is an internal methodology that  
management uses to track trends in premium rates on a 
portfolio of insurance and reinsurance contracts. The RPI  
is calculated on a per contract basis and reflects Lancashire’s 
assessment of relative changes in price, terms, conditions  
and limits on like-for-like renewals only, and is weighted by 
premium volume. The RPI does not include new business  
and only covers business written by LICL and LUK, to offer a 
consistent basis for analysis. The calculation involves a degree 
of judgement in relation to the comparability of contracts and 
the assessment noted above. To enhance the RPI tool, the 
management of Lancashire may revise the methodology and 
assumptions underlying the RPI, so the trends in premium 
rates reflected in the RPI may not be comparable over time. 
Consideration is only given to renewals of a comparable nature 
so the RPI does not reflect every contract in Lancashire’s 
portfolio. The future profitability of the portfolio of contracts 
within the RPI is dependent upon many factors besides the 
trends in premium rates.

PREMIUMS
Gross premiums written decreased by 1.1 per cent in 2016 
compared to 2015. The Group’s five principal segments, and 
the key market factors impacting them, are discussed below.

PROPERTY
Property gross premiums written increased by 11.3 per cent  
for the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to the year 
ended 31 December 2015. The majority of the increase was 
driven by new business in the political risk and property 
catastrophe excess of loss classes, partly offset by reductions 
due to the impact of non-annual policies in the political risk 

The following table summarises the RPI figures for the main business classes, excluding the Lloyd’s segment, using 2006 as the base year:

RPI
Class
Aviation (AV52)
Gulf of Mexico offshore energy
Worldwide offshore energy
Marine
Property retrocession and reinsurance
Terrorism
Combined

UNDERWRITING RESULTS

2016
37
111
70
72
103
38
61

2015
41
118
81
82
117
43
68

2014
44
125
91
91
132
48
76

2013
49
136
97
89
152
52
81

2012
55
140
100
86
157
55
84

2011
59
140
97
79
131
57
83

2010
62
139
88
80
121
60
81

2009
68
137
84
82
127
66
83

2008
69
64
68
80
86
71
76

2007
80
80
80
88
97
86
86

2006
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

2016

2015

Gross premiums written
Net premiums earned
Net loss ratio
Net acquisition cost ratio
Expense ratio
Combined ratio

Marine 
$m
37.2
35.4

Energy 
$m
126.0
105.5

Aviation 
$m
36.2
25.5

Property 
Total 
$m
$m
219.5
641.1
148.5
567.1
9.2% 39.3% 41.8%  (4.7)%  42.6%  29.2% 10.6% 37.0% 13.8% 57.8% 33.4% 27.5%
18.9%  45.1% 27.4% 30.6% 22.5% 27.1% 18.4% 37.4% 34.2% 26.3% 23.0% 25.8%
18.8%
 28.1% 84.4% 69.2% 25.9% 65.1% 76.5% 29.0% 74.4% 48.0% 84.1% 56.4% 72.1%

Property 
$m
197.2
171.3

Aviation 
$m
36.6
33.4

Lloyd’s 
$m
215.0
173.2

Total 
$m
633.9
488.1

Energy 
$m
112.0
126.5

Lloyd’s 
$m
247.7
198.2

Marine 
$m
47.6
37.7

 20.2%

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

and terrorism classes. Business flow in the political risk class is 
generally less predictable than other classes of business due to  
the lead time and specific nature of each deal. Rates continued to 
experience pressure in the property catastrophe excess of loss class.

ENERGY
Energy gross premiums written increased by 12.5 per cent for  
the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to the year ended 
31 December 2015. The Gulf of Mexico book was responsible for 
most of the increase during 2016. Some new business was added  
in this class, but the vast majority of the increase was driven by  
the timing impact of multi-year deals plus the cancellation and 
replacement of certain contracts. The worldwide offshore book 
continued to experience price and exposure reductions due to the 
relatively low oil price, offset somewhat by the timing of renewal of 
non-annual deals.

MARINE
Marine gross premiums written decreased by 21.8 per cent for  
the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to the year ended 
31 December 2015. The majority of the decrease across the class 
during 2016 was driven by the timing of non-annual renewals, 
together with a reduction in prior underwriting year risk-attaching 
business due to changes in the underlying exposure.

AVIATION
Aviation gross premiums written decreased by 1.1 per cent for  
the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to the year ended 
31 December 2015. The decrease was mainly due to the timing  
of satellite launches on contracts written in previous years.

LLOYD’S
In the Lloyd’s segment gross premiums written decreased by  
13.2 per cent for the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to  
the year ended 31 December 2015. The decrease was primarily due to 
reductions across all lines of business, with rates continuing to come 
under pressure due to over-capacity in the market. In addition, the 
energy and marine cargo lines were both impacted by the low oil 
price. The decline in marine cargo premiums was due to the lower 
value of oil in transit. In the energy line, less oil production and 
exploration has reduced exposure.

CEDED
Ceded premiums increased by $15.8 million, or 9.9 per cent, for  
the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to the year ended 
31 December 2015. Favourable conditions in the reinsurance market 
have generally allowed both Lancashire and Cathedral to buy more 
reinsurance limit, by adding new layers and attaching at lower loss 
levels for around the same outlay. The increased spend was largely 
due to higher cessions to various outwards facilities and additional 
reinstatement premiums.

EARNED
Net premiums earned as a proportion of net premiums written 
were 106.4 per cent for the year ended 31 December 2016, compared 
to 117.7 per cent for the year ended 31 December 2015. The reduced 
earnings percentage was due to an increase in longer tenor business 
written plus increased reinsurance spend.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

25

PERFORMANCE 
BUSINESS REVIEW CONTINUED

LOSSES
The Group’s net loss ratio was 29.2 per cent for the year  
ended 31 December 2016 compared to 27.5 per cent for the 
year ended 31 December 2015. The 2016 accident year loss 
ratio, including the impact of foreign exchange revaluations, 
was 46.2 per cent compared to 46.0 per cent for the year 
ended 31 December 2015. While there were no major losses  
in either 2016 or 2015, both years experienced a few mid-sized 
losses, primarily across the property and energy classes. 
Attritional losses for both years were otherwise low.

Prior year favourable development was $85.8 million for  
the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to favourable 
development of $107.7 million for the year ended 
31 December 2015. Despite some adverse development on 
prior accident year marine and energy claims in 2016, the 
overall favourable development was primarily due to general 
IBNR releases across most lines of business due to a lack of 
reported claims. Experience in 2015 was similar in terms of 
releases, plus there was a further benefit of additional 
recoveries on the 2011 Thai flood losses.

The table below provides further detail of the prior years’  
loss development by class, excluding the impact of foreign 
exchange revaluations:

LOSS DEVELOPMENT BY CLASS

Property
Energy
Marine
Aviation
Lloyd’s
Total

Note: Positive numbers denote favourable development.

ACCIDENT YEAR LOSS RATIOS

Accident year loss ratio 
Initial accident year loss ratio
Reduction in loss ratio post-accident year

Note: Adjusted for revaluation of foreign currencies at the exchange rate as at 31 December 2016.

Excluding the impact of foreign exchange revaluations, 
previous accident years’ ultimate losses developed as follows 
during 2016 and 2015:

ULTIMATE LOSS DEVELOPMENT BY ACCIDENT YEAR

2006 and prior accident years
2007 accident year
2008 accident year
2009 accident year
2010 accident year
2011 accident year
2012 accident year
2013 accident year
2014 accident year
2015 accident year
Total

2016 
$m
 0.3
(0.7)
1.6
(18.0)
3.2
9.9
13.5
(1.6)
19.9
57.7
85.8

2015 
$m
1.6
1.1
(2.1)
4.1
(3.5)
17.1
10.8
35.4
43.2
–
107.7

Note: Positive numbers denote favourable development.

The ratio of IBNR to total net loss reserves was 34.6 per cent  
as at 31 December 2016 compared to 35.2 per cent as at 
31 December 2015.

2016 
$m
 36.6
 17.3
 1.9
 3.9
26.1
85.8

2016 
%
46.2
n/a
n/a

2015 
$m
26.4
35.2
13.8
2.9
29.4
107.7

2015 
%
35.7
46.0
10.3

2014 
$m
19.8
5.4
(9.7)
0.9
18.0
34.4

2014 
%
27.0
35.9
8.9

2013 
$m
13.2
18.4
(23.4)
(1.4)
9.1
15.9

2013 
%
28.5
36.1
7.6

2012 
$m
(36.0)
37.4
25.9
0.1
n/a
27.4

2012 
%
27.9
34.6
6.7

26 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

ACQUISITION COSTS
The acquisition cost ratio was 27.1 per cent for the year  
ended 31 December 2016 compared to 25.8 per cent for the 
year ended 31 December 2015. The increase was largely due to 
the additional reinsurance cover purchased in 2016 compared 
to 2015, in addition to higher profit commissions on some of 
our worldwide offshore business.

INVESTMENTS, LIQUIDITY AND CASH FLOW
Since inception, the primary objectives for our investment 
portfolio have been capital preservation and liquidity.  
Those objectives remain unchanged, and are more important 
than ever in today’s volatile and reactive markets. As market 
volatility continues, we position our portfolio to limit downside 
risk in the event of market shocks. In 2016, our focus was  
on managing our interest rate risk, the largest risk to our 
predominantly fixed maturity portfolio. We continue to 
maintain a short duration, mostly fixed maturity portfolio and 
have been using our risk budget to add products to our portfolio 
to help mitigate a rise in interest rates. We produced a total 
investment return of 2.1 per cent compared to 0.7 per cent  

MANAGED INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO ALLOCATIONS

Cash
Short-term investments
Fixed maturity funds
Government debt
Agency debt
Agency MBS, CMBS
Non-agency RMBS, ABS, CMBS
Corporate bonds
Bank loans
Fixed maturity – at FVTPL
Equity securities
Hedge funds – at FVTPL
Other investments
Total

for the year ended 31 December 2015. Our average annual  
total investment return since inception is 2.9 per cent, and  
we have made a positive investment return in every year since 
inception, including 2008. Our portfolio mix illustrates our 
conservative philosophy, as shown in the table below. With the 
composition regulated by the Group’s investment guidelines, 
we have three investment portfolio categories: ‘core’, ‘core 
plus’ and ‘surplus’. The core portfolio contains at least enough 
funds required to meet near-term obligations and cash flow 
needs following an extreme event. Assets in excess of those 
required to be held in the core portfolio may be held in any  
of the three portfolio categories, which are discussed further 
on page 112. As at 31 December 2016 and 2015 the managed 
portfolio was as follows:

Fixed maturity securities
Cash and cash equivalents
Hedge funds
Equity securities
Total

2016  
%
10.4
0.3
0.8
20.3
4.4
6.4
7.3
32.5
6.6
2.8
 1.2
7.0
–
100.0

2015  
%
9.6
1.1
0.6
23.6
0.2
7.3
8.4
33.2
5.9
1.3
0.8
8.0
–
100.0

 2014  
%
10.6
1.4
0.7
21.4
0.8
7.7
11.0
31.7
5.8
1.4
0.7
6.8
–
100.0

2016 
%
81.4
10.4
7.0
1.2
100.0

2013  
%
14.7
9.8
1.1
14.6
4.1
10.9
8.4
29.7
4.5
1.3
0.7
–
0.2
100.0

2015 
%
81.6
9.6
8.0
0.8
100.0

2012  
%
11.1
5.4
–
18.8
6.2
19.2
5.3
32.2
1.8
–
–
–
–
100.0

www.lancashiregroup.com 

27

PERFORMANCE 
BUSINESS REVIEW CONTINUED

The composition, duration and asset allocation of the 
investment portfolio are reviewed on a regular basis in order  
to respond to changes in interest rates and other market 
conditions. If certain asset classes are anticipated to produce  
a higher return within management’s risk tolerance an 
adjustment in asset allocation may be made. Conversely, if  
the risk profile is expected to move outside tolerance levels, 
adjustments may be made to reduce the risk in the portfolio. 
We try to be nimble in our investment strategy while putting 
our objective of capital preservation first and foremost.  
We believe in the application of common sense, and  
do not place much reliance on ‘black box’ approaches  
to investment selection.

Investments are, however, inherently unpredictable and there 
are risks associated with any investment strategy decisions. 
Recent market history has been tumultuous and we remain 
ever watchful. We will continue to monitor the political 
environment closely.

INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE
Net investment income, excluding realised and unrealised 
gains and losses, was $29.8 million for the year ended 
31 December 2016, consistent with 2015. Total investment 
return, including net investment income, net realised gains 
and losses, impairments and net change in unrealised gains 
and losses, was $38.4 million for the year ended 31 December  
2016 compared to $14.4 million for 2015. For the year ended 
31 December 2016, the investment portfolio returned 2.1 per 
cent. The fixed maturity portfolios performed reasonably well 
in 2016 primarily due to the narrowing of credit spreads which 
more than offset the slight increase in treasury yields during 
the year. Investment income was supported by strong returns 
from the Group’s bank loans, equities and equity linked notes 
during 2016. For the year ended 31 December 2015, the 
investment portfolio returned 0.7 per cent, reflecting the 
increase in treasury yields and the widening of credit spreads.

LIQUIDITY
The Group is a short-tail insurance and reinsurance group.  
As such, the investment portfolio must be liquid, short 
duration, and highly credit-worthy. As noted earlier, the 
Group’s investment strategy places an emphasis on the 
preservation of invested assets and provision of sufficient 
liquidity for the prompt payment of claims in conjunction  
with providing a reasonably stable income stream.

Liquid securities will be maintained at an adequate level to 
more than meet expenses, including unanticipated claims 
payments. Only once safety, liquidity and investment income 
requirements are satisfied may additional growth in the 
investment portfolio be pursued. 

CASH FLOW
The Group’s cash inflows are primarily derived from net 
premiums received, from losses recovered from reinsurers, 
from net investment income, including dividends, profit 
commissions, fee income and other returns from its associate, 
and any capital raising activities performed in a given year 
including the issuance of debt. Excess funds are invested in the 
investment portfolio, which primarily consists of high-quality, 
highly liquid fixed maturity securities of short duration.  
Other cash inflows result from the sale and redemption 
of investments.

The principal outflows for the Group are the settlement  
of claims, the payment of premiums for reinsurance cover, 
payment of general and administrative expenses, the servicing 
of debt, the purchase of investment products, the distribution 
of dividends and the repurchasing of shares.

In 2016, whilst lower than the prior year, our operating  
cash flow remained strong, driven by the Group’s robust 
underwriting performance. A net positive cash inflow  
arose from operations during the year of $48.9 million  
(2015 – $98.1 million).

KEY INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO STATISTICS

Duration
Credit quality
Market yield
Book yield

2016
1.8 years
A+
1.9%
1.8%

2015
1.5 years
AA–
1.9%
1.6%

2014
1.5 years
AA–
1.5%
1.5%

2013
1.0 year
AA–
1.2%
1.4%

2012
1.8 years
AA–
1.1%
1.8%

28 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

LANCASHIRE THIRD-PARTY CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
The total contribution from third-party capital activities 
consists of the following items:

Kinesis underwriting fees
Kinesis profit commission
Lloyd’s  
fees & profit commission
Total other income
Share of profit of associate
Total third-party capital  
managed income

2016 
$m
4.4
6.2

9.9
20.5
5.1

25.6

2015 
$m
5.6
7.3

7.0
19.9
4.1

24.0

The reduction in Kinesis underwriting fees year on year is  
due to slightly less limit placed. The slightly lower Kinesis  
profit commission during the year ended 31 December 2016 
compared to 2015 was due to the retention of a portion of the 
collateral held on the January 2015 underwriting cycle which  
is awaiting the confirmation of claims quantum. We anticipate 
receiving the remaining commission during the first quarter  
of 2017. The share of profit of associate reflects Lancashire’s 
10 per cent equity interest in the Kinesis vehicle.

The higher Lloyd’s fees and profit commission during the year 
ended 31 December 2016 compared to 2015, was driven by the 
timing of profit commission on the 2014 year of account, 
together with profit commission on consortium business.

OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

Employee remuneration costs
Other operating expenses
Total

2016 
$m
61.4
37.1
98.5

2015 
$m
64.3
42.3
106.6

Employee remuneration costs for the year ended 
31 December 2016 were $2.9 million lower compared to  
2015. A higher compensation expense due to Cathedral staff 
departures was recorded in 2015. Otherwise 2016 benefited 
from the depreciation of Sterling in the second half of 2016.

Other operating expenses were $5.2 million lower for the year 
ended 31 December 2016 compared to the same period in 
2015, primarily due to the depreciation in Sterling.

Equity based compensation expenses were $10.7 million for 
the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to $15.8 million 
for the year ended 31 December 2015. The decrease was 
primarily due to the lapsing of restricted share scheme awards 
of former employees of Cathedral on their departure from 
the Group.

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
Lancashire has built a reputation for being one of the best 
known and most active proponents of capital management  
in the industry. Capital management is our most important 
area of focus after underwriting and it is our firm belief that 
pro-active and flexible capital management is crucial in 
helping to generate a superior risk-adjusted return over  
time. With our focus on maximising shareholder return  
we will return capital where this offers the best returns  
for our shareholders. We have returned 104.2 per cent of 
comprehensive income generated via dividends or share 
repurchases since inception.

The Group actively reviews the level and composition of capital 
on an ongoing basis. Internal methods have been developed to 
review the profitability of classes of business and their estimated 
capital requirements and the capital requirements of the 
combination of a wide range of other risk categories. The key 
aim of the capital management process is to maintain a strong 
balance sheet, whilst:

•  maintaining sufficient capital for underwriting opportunities 

and to meet obligations to policyholders;

•  maximising the risk-adjusted return to shareholders within 

predetermined risk tolerances;

•  maintaining adequate financial strength ratings; and
•  meeting internal, regulatory and rating 

agency requirements.

The subsidiary operating entities also conduct capital 
requirement assessments under internal measures and  
in compliance with local regulatory requirements.

Capital raising can include debt or equity, and returns of 
capital may be made through dividends, share repurchases,  
a redemption of debt or any combination thereof. All capital 
actions require approval by the Board of Directors. The 
retention of earnings generated also leads to an increase 
in capital.

The composition of capital is driven by management’s appetite 
for leverage, amongst other factors, including the cost and 
availability of different types of capital.

Maintaining a strong balance sheet will be the overriding 
factor in all capital management decisions. The Solvency II 
regulatory regime for (re)insurance in the EEA introduced  
a new basis for assessing regulatory capital requirements and 
became effective from 1 January 2016. The Group is more 
than adequately capitalised for supervisory and regulatory 
purposes under the Solvency II regime.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

29

PERFORMANCE 
BUSINESS REVIEW CONTINUED

CAPITAL
As at 31 December 2016, total capital available to the  
Group was $1.528 billion, comprising shareholders’ equity of 
$1.207 billion and $320.9 million of long-term debt. Tangible 
capital was $1.374 billion. Leverage was 21.0 per cent on total 
capital and 23.3 per cent on total tangible capital. Total capital 
and total tangible capital as at 31 December 2015 were 
$1.542 billion and $1.388 billion respectively.

DIVIDENDS
During 2016, the Lancashire Board declared a final dividend 
of $0.10 per common share in respect of the 2015 financial 
year, an interim dividend of $0.05 and a special dividend of 
$0.75 per common share in respect of 2016. With the final 
dividend in respect of 2016 of $0.10 per common share,  
total capital returns since inception amount to $2.7 billion, 
or 274.7 per cent of initial capital raised. The final dividend  
of $0.10 per common share has been declared and will be  
paid on 22 March 2017 to the shareholders of record on 
24 February 2017.

NON PRE-EMPTIVE ISSUE OF SHARES
As part of the Group’s flexible approach to capital 
management the Board has in recent years requested and 
received from shareholders authority to issue up to 15 per cent 
of its shares on a non pre-emptive basis. Lancashire believes 
that this ability to raise capital quickly is important in securing 
first mover advantage in the catastrophe insurance and 
reinsurance business in which it underwrites. The Board 
proposes to put similar requests for authority to shareholders 
in resolutions at the 2017 AGM to be held on 3 May 2017.

LETTERS OF CREDIT
Lancashire has a standard syndicated LOC facility which  
in total amounts to $300.0 million, with a $75.0 million  
loan sub-limit available for general corporate purposes.  
During 2016, Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010 each had  
a catastrophe facility in place to assist in paying claims and 
gross funding of catastrophes. These facilities amounted to a 
combined $100.0 million with a total of $50.0 million available 
by way of LOCs and $50.0 million by way of RCFs. For 2017, 
this facility is in place for Syndicate 2010 only, providing in 
aggregate up to $80.0 million with a total of $40.0 million 
available by way of LOCs and $40.0 million by way of RCFs.

There was no outstanding debt under the above facilities  
at any reporting date. There are no off-balance sheet forms 
of capital.

30 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT

BALANCING
THE ELEMENTS OF ERM

LOUISE WELLS
Group Chief Risk Officer

Balancing all the elements of ERM is 
essential if we are to emerge from this  
soft market ready to maximise 
any opportunities.

THE ONGOING BALANCING ACT
With the continued soft market in 2016 it has been even more 
important to ensure that we are balancing the risk we take on 
with the reward we receive for that risk. Our focus, therefore, 
has been on ensuring risk management remains inherent 
within our everyday processes and procedures; and that those 
processes and procedures continue to operate effectively 
and efficiently.

THIS YEAR’S ERM JOURNEY
Early in 2016 we completed the implementation of our new 
risk system, the ‘Governance Portal’, which has enhanced our 
quarterly risk and controls’ affirmation process. In addition, 
Internal Audit now use the system to record all audit findings 
and link them to the relevant risk and control. The control 
affirmations have not identified any significant failings or 
weaknesses in our key controls or associated processes.

As at 31 December 2016, all Group entities were operating 
within their board-approved risk tolerances. No new risks have 
been identified and there have not been any material changes 
in our existing risks. Our risk preferences reduced during 2016 
as a result of the market conditions, as we work to maintain 
our risk and return balance.

Our quarterly own risk solvency assessment reports  
prepared by the CRO to the main Board, known as ORSA 
reports, provide a timely analysis of current and potential risks, 
compared to risk tolerances, along with their associated capital 
requirements. The third annual ORSA report was reviewed, 
challenged and approved by the Board during the fourth 
quarter of 2016 and submitted to the PRA in line with 
supervisory requirements.

As a Lloyd’s Managing Agent Cathedral falls within the Society 
of Lloyd’s for Solvency II reporting, preparing ORSA reports 
for each syndicate. Cathedral has its own ERM framework to 
ensure adherence to Lloyd’s minimum standards.

For the first time this year, the CRO reported to the 
Remuneration Committee regarding risk and remuneration, 
recognising the importance of the design of the remuneration 
structure in driving desired behaviours over both the short-
term and the longer-term business planning periods.

LOOKING FORWARD AND MAINTAINING THE BALANCE
A detailed review of the ERM framework across the Group  
is planned for early 2017. This review will take into account 
how the existing framework has served us, current market best 
practice, and how the Group plans to operate going forward, 
with the aim of ensuring that the risk management framework 
meets the challenge of balancing the Group’s risks and returns 
during the soft market and beyond.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

31

PERFORMANCE 
ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

The diagram below illustrates how we balance our ERM and ORSA activities. Our risk culture is driven from the top down via the Board and 
executive management to the business, with the RRC central to these processes.

ERM & ORSA 

KEY ACTIVITIES
•  Review of business strategy with challenge from the Board
•  Annual approval of a business strategy paper by the Board

•  CRO report to Board and 
Executive Management  
Committee

•  Production of ORSA report 
and review and approval by 
the Board

•  Capital and liquidity 

management frameworks
•  Review of BLAST policies, 

capital and solvency  
appetites
•  Full/proxy 

capital assessments

•  Rating agency 

capital assessments

•  Stress and scenario testing

STRATEGY REVIEW  

& CHALLENGE

RISK SOLVENCY &  

ASSESSMENT

CAPITAL 

MANAGEMENT

C U LTURE &
BOARD
RRCRRC
RRC
OVERN A N C E

G

RISK ID &  

ASSESSMENT

RISK APPETITE &  

TOLERANCES

RISK & BUSINESS  

MANAGEMENT

BUSINESS  

PLANNING

•  Risk identification and assessment
•  Quarterly risk and control  

affirmations

•  Quarterly Internal Audit reports to 
the Audit Committee per a three 
and four-year rolling programme

•  External audit reports to the 

Audit Committee

•  Audit Committee annual review  
of the effectiveness of financial  
controls

•  Review of risk strategy  
and ‘attitude to risk’
•  Review of risk appetite 

and limits

•  Review of Group 
risk tolerances

•  Review of risk 

management policies

•  Review and approval  

of business plan by the Board

•  Assessment of risk management 

•  Stress and scenario testing 

framework maturity

•  Integrated assurance assessment
•  Emerging risk assessment

(business plan)
•  Assessment of 

management actions

Key Elements of ORSA

Board sign-off and embedding

Business Strategy

Risks

Capital and Solvency

Stress and Scenario Testing

RRC
The RRC, under the chairmanship of the Group CEO, is  
the key management tool for monitoring and challenging  
the assessment of risk on a continual basis. The RRC agenda is 
reviewed each year to ensure its activities remain appropriate 
and are aligned with the business cycle. The RRC reports its 
principal findings to the Board through the CRO’s quarterly 
ORSA reports.

BLAST
We continue to challenge the assumptions used in BLAST and 
make changes where appropriate.

EMERGING RISK
As ever in 2016, the Group strove to foresee potential areas of 
new risk, or developments in existing risks that could threaten 
the Group. The political and economic outlook remains 
uncertain following the results of both the UK’s referendum 
on leaving the European Union and the U.S. Presidential 
Election. Whilst we don’t expect either to have a material 
impact on the Group, we continue to monitor the position. 
Cyber risk remains a hot topic and under scrutiny, both in  
our operating exposure and via our inwards insurance risk. 
Terrorism is an area of core business focus for the Group, and 
is well understood, but the continued increase in the diversity 
of targets and modes of attack from terrorist groups means  
we maintain a watch on developing trends.

32 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

RISK UNIVERSE
We continue to classify risks in three broad classes:

•  Intrinsic Risk: ‘Risk that stems from the inherent 

randomness and uncertainty that exists in the universe  
in which we operate and that is therefore fundamental to 
how we manage our business.’ This is the risk we accept  
as inherent in the core functions of our business; so we 
recognise that by insuring fortuitous events we can suffer 
losses, and that within our investment portfolio we can see 
the value of investments fall. We cannot avoid these risks  
so we focus on the correlated operational risks and seek to 
mitigate them. So, for example, we know that by insuring 
the risk of earthquake we are exposed to the risk that losses 
exceed our plan. We model our portfolio using stochastic 
modeling to review actual and planned exposures to ensure 
they remain within tolerances. The correlated risks are that 
we might fail to design or maintain effective tolerances and 
limits, and fail to maintain exposures within such limits;  
or that we fail to keep accurate and timely records of our 
exposures. We then devise systems and processes to mitigate 
these risks, such as PML reconciliations, and RDS sign-offs, 
with review by the RRC and regular ORSA reports to 
the Board.

•  Operational Risk: ‘The potential for specific losses arising  

as a result of inadequate or failed internal processes, 
personnel, systems or (non-insurance) external events.’ 
Risks that are operational in causation can be split into  
two sub-categories in terms of how they crystallise:
•  Independent: risks that have the potential to crystallise 
independently from intrinsic risk. For example, losses 
arising through the imposition of fines as a result of a 
regulatory breach, so unrelated to our core functions.
•  Correlated: risks that relate to the failure to effectively 

operate the processes designed to manage intrinsic risk, 
and which therefore have the potential to amplify its 
impact beyond that modeled. For example, increased 
reinsurer default losses arising through the use of 
non-approved counterparties.

•  Other Risk: This is the non-financial category of risks such  
as reputational risk or communication risk which cannot 
necessarily be mitigated by holding capital since such risks 
may not have direct balance sheet implications. These are 
included within the risk register and are assessed and 
mitigated through scenario and stress testing.

RISK UNIVERSE

Type

Category

Description

Underwriting 

Investment

c
i
s
n
i
r
t
n
I

e
r
o
C

e Reserving

r
o
c
-
n
o
N

c
i
s
n
i
r
t
n
I

l
a
n
o
i
t
a
r
e
p
O

r
e
h
t
O

(Re)Insurance counterparty

Liquidity

Operational

Strategic

Group

Emerging

Intrinsic risks representing the potential to generate a return as well as a loss.

In these areas, the Group promotes informed risk taking that considers the risk and return 
equation in all major decisions, with the intention of maximising risk-adjusted return 
on equity.

Intrinsic risks to which we are inevitably exposed as a result of conducting our day-to-day 
business operations yet offer no direct potential for return.

They are quantified insofar as practicable for the purposes of capital and risk management 
and avoided or minimised insofar as is economically justifiable.

These are risks arising as a result of inadequate or failed internal processes, personnel, 
systems or (non-insurance) external events.

They have the potential either to magnify the adverse impacts of intrinsic risks or 
to crystallise separately in their own right.

These are risks for which quantitative assessment is difficult but for which a structured 
approach is still required to ensure that their potential impact is considered and mitigated 
insofar as is practicable.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

33

PERFORMANCE 
 
 
PRINCIPAL RISKS

BALANCING OUR
RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES

As described under our review of the Risk Universe, our 
classification of risks as Intrinsic Core and Intrinsic Non-Core, 
Operational and Other helps us to focus on our management 
and mitigation of those risks. Further details concerning  
these risks can be found on pages 101 to 128. Within BLAST, 
insurance risk accounts for over 80 per cent of the allocated 
risk capital, so this is clearly the principal area where we 
stringently apply controls and reviews. For example, we place  

a large number of controls around monitoring risk levels 
across the business. However, we understand that even risks 
that do not generate a capital charge under an economic 
capital model can pose serious threats to the execution of  
the business plan and strategy, and therefore need to be 
monitored and tested. For example, we spend a lot of time 
looking at the implications of emerging capital and the 
evolution of the market cycle.

INTRINSIC RISK: CORE

TYPE
Underwriting: Losses in our classes are hard to predict in  
particular as to the specifics of timing and quantum of catastrophe 
loss events. Additionally, we write lines of business that are subject  
to accumulations, including accumulations of individual risk losses 
arising from a single event such as several property catastrophe 
excess of loss programmes being affected by a windstorm or 
earthquake, and accumulations between business lines such as a 
9/11 type event impacting both the terrorism and AV52 portfolios. 
Losses can also exceed expectations in terms of both frequency and 
severity. So, although we model losses, for example using the RMS 
and AIR stochastic models, we know that these projections can and 
will be wrong in many instances.

Investment: We need to hold sufficient assets in readiness to pay 
claims, but the markets and products in which we invest can suffer 
volatility and losses. As a short-tail insurer, we are able to hold the 
majority of assets in low duration securities such as fixed income 
bonds. However, this creates an additional source of risk in the 
current environment, where there is a considerable risk from 
changes to interest rates as quantitative easing programmes may 
begin to taper or be increased. We model our investment portfolios 
and use various stress scenarios to see what kinds of losses we could 
expect under a range of outcomes.

INTRINSIC RISK: NON-CORE

TYPE
Reserving: Because we do not know the amount of losses we are 
going to incur at the outset of a contract, we have to make estimates 
of the reserves we need to hold to pay claims. If these reserves are 
inadequate and claims exceed them, this may have an impact on 
earnings, or indeed capital. Independent external reviews of our 
reserves look at the overall levels of expected losses, as well as 
individual large events, including benchmarking analyses to  
provide assurance over the level of reserves booked.

34 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

MITIGATION
Modeling: We apply loads to, and stress test, stochastic models and 
develop alternative views of losses using exposure damage ratios.

RRC: The RRC considers accumulations, clashes and 
parameterisation of losses and models.

Capital: We set our internal capital requirements at a level that 
allows for buffers above accumulations of extreme events and the 
Board considers capital requirements on at least a quarterly basis.

Investment strategy: Our strategy is that investment income is  
not expected to be a significant driver of our returns. Our primary 
focus remains on underwriting as the engine of profits. Investment 
strategy is approved annually and monitored on a quarterly basis by 
the Investment Committee and Board.

IRRC: The IRRC forms an integral part of our risk management 
framework, meeting at least quarterly and reporting to the RRC.

External advisers: Lancashire’s Board and management recognise 
that the Group’s principal expertise lies in underwriting so we use 
the services of internationally recognised investment managers who 
are experts in their fields.

MITIGATION
Short-tail business: Lancashire’s focus is on short-tail lines of 
business where losses are usually known within, or shortly after,  
the policy period with a reasonable degree of certainty.

Experience data: We have access to a lot of data, both our own and 
from the industry as a whole, about losses and loss trends. Actuarial 
and statistical data are used to set estimates of future losses, and 
these are reviewed by underwriters, claims staff and actuaries to 
ensure that they reflect the actual experience of the business.

External review: Insurers typically facilitate an independent, 
external review of their loss reserves. Lancashire retains the services 
of one of the leading industry experts, and our appetite is defined 
so as to set reserves within a range of reasonable estimates based  
on both internal and external review. The Audit Committee of  
the Board reviews reserve adequacy at its quarterly meetings.

INTRINSIC RISK: NON-CORE CONTINUED

TYPE
Reinsurance and intermediary counterparty: Almost all the 
insurance policies which we write are brought to us by brokers,  
who act as intermediaries between us and the client and handle  
the transaction of payments of claims and premiums on our behalf. 
This exposes us to the risk of mishandling by, or failure of, the 
broker concerned. In order to make our portfolio as efficient as 
possible, we buy reinsurance to protect against severity, frequency 
and accumulation of losses. Again, this exposes us to the risk that 
our counterparties may have the inability or unwillingness to pay us 
in the event of a loss.

Liquidity: In order to satisfy claims payments we need to ensure that 
sufficient assets are held in a readily realisable form. This includes 
holding cash accounts for the expected level of attritional losses, as 
well as ensuring that we can meet claims payment requirements in 
extreme events.

OPERATIONAL

TYPE
These are risks arising as a result of inadequate or failed internal 
processes, personnel, systems or (non-insurance) external events. 
They have the potential either to magnify the adverse impacts of 
intrinsic risks or crystallise separately in their own right. This can 
encompass IT availability, where the failure of an IT system, such  
as our underwriting system, could impact our ability to maintain 
accurate and up-to-date records of our exposure. If correlated  
with an insurance loss this could cause us to breach insurance  
risk tolerances. It could also encompass IT integrity, where an 
unauthorised intruder could alter data in our systems, or  
introduce a bug that would corrupt the system.

OTHER

TYPE
These are risks for which quantitative assessment is difficult but  
for which a structured approach is still required to ensure that  
their potential impact is considered and mitigated insofar as 
practicable. They include categories such as Strategic, Group  
and Emerging Risks.

MITIGATION
Counterparty credit limits: We use counterparty credit limits, seek to 
deal with reputable reinsurers, with minimum rating standards, and 
use collateral agreements where appropriate. The operating entities 
of the Group that contract for reinsurance separately maintain and 
report their own counterparty credit limits at the entity level. The 
RSC is responsible for approving counterparties and monitoring 
aggregate limits. The Broker Vetting Committee is responsible for 
the broker vetting approval process and monitoring credit risk in 
relation to brokers. In addition, the Lancashire companies conduct 
broker business using non risk transfer TOBAs. This mitigates the 
risk due to non-payment by brokers and intermediaries as monies 
are held in separated client accounts.

Portfolio management: The Group maintains liquidity in excess  
of the Board agreed tolerances. This is achieved through the 
maintenance of a highly liquid portfolio with short duration  
and high creditworthiness. We monitor this through the use  
of stress tests and mitigate risks through the quality of the 
investments themselves.

MITIGATION
Capacity: We mitigate IT availability risk by adding redundancy to 
the capacity we need and using backups of data including off-site 
storage that we test regularly.

Testing and access: We mitigate the integrity risk by using 
independent external penetration tests, and by restricting access  
to key systems to only those people who are qualified and need to 
use them.

Personnel: We mitigate the risks associated with staff retention  
and key-man risk through a combination of resource planning 
processes and controls. Examples include targeted retention 
packages, documented position descriptions and employment 
contracts, resource monitoring and the provision of appropriate 
compensation and training schemes. The Board regularly reviews 
succession planning arrangements and remuneration structures.

MITIGATION
Qualitative approach: These risks require a qualitative approach, 
engaging staff in appropriate discussions about sources of risk,  
and then thinking about possible outcomes. The Group Executive 
Committee and the RRC consider these issues, and the ORSA 
reports made by the CRO to the Board include standing items  
on Emerging Risk.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

35

PERFORMANCE 
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY

SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES – 
OUR RESPONSIBILITY  
TO OTHERS

WHY CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY IS IMPORTANT TO LANCASHIRE
Corporate responsibility is an integral part of Lancashire’s approach to its  
business. We recognise the need to balance our commitment to our shareholders, 
employees and more immediate stakeholders with a responsibility to support the 
wider communities whether within our neighbouring areas or further afield. The 
Lancashire Foundation, our charitable grant making body, is the cornerstone of our 
support. The channelling of the talents and energy of our staff in helping others in 
this way helps benefit and build Lancashire’s business and a positive culture.

Lancashire has a relatively low headcount (fewer than 200 
employees globally), all of whom are remunerated on a basis 
which comfortably exceeds UK minimum wage requirements. 
In the ancillary services and limited supply chains used by the 
Group, Lancashire seeks to receive assurance that its service 
providers pay a living wage. Concerns over human rights issues 
with insureds and potential clients are addressed as part of the 
underwriting process. During 2016, the Board approved a 
statement addressing modern slavery and human trafficking 
concerns, which is published on the Lancashire website. The 
Board has recently reviewed the statement on slavery and 
human trafficking and concluded that it remains fit 
for purpose.

OUR APPROACH
Lancashire tries to improve society and our environment using 
such tools as donations by the Foundation and the allocation 
of staff charity days to work on local improvement projects.  
We limit the negative impact of our carbon footprint through 
mitigation strategies and offsets. As well as the direct benefits, 
we believe that Lancashire reaps indirect benefits in terms of 
its attraction as an ethical and compassionate employer, and 
the positive and long lasting team-building benefits of the 
activities undertaken. In terms of governance, the Board  
sets the policy for corporate donations to the Foundation  
and reviews reports on its activities. The day-to-day activities  
of the Foundation are delegated to a Donations Committee 
comprised of staff members from across our operating 
platforms, which monitors and reports on the activities of the 
charities to which donations are made and brings a mixture of 
passion and pragmatism to our charitable giving. The Board 
also sets the policy for the operation of the HR function, and 
the environmental impact of the business.

WE FOCUS ON THE FOLLOWING FOUR AREAS:

COMMUNITY

$17.4m

donated by the Lancashire 
Foundation since inception

See page

37

ENVIRONMENT

100%

of our 2016  
CO2 emissions offset

See page

39

MARKETPLACE

100%

WORKPLACE

10

of our employees are eligible for 
RSS awards

different countries represented 
by our workforce

See page

40

See page

41

36 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

COMMUNITY
We remain strongly committed to engaging with our local 
communities in Bermuda and the UK, including those that are 
near to our London office, and we continue to support local 
initiatives and activities, through partnerships with schools,  
local government and local businesses.

OUR APPROACH
We support our communities through the Foundation by making 
donations to locally based charities and through our staff charity 
day release programmes and charity leave. We believe that our 
mixture of financial support and voluntary engagement provides 
greater satisfaction for our staff and greater value to our charities. 
In 2016, 79 of our staff members across the Group participated  
in one or more of the volunteering opportunities offered by 
Lancashire. In Bermuda we continue to sponsor a morning fresh 
fruit programme for primary school children, and have from time 
to time held staff raffles, bake sales and other fundraising efforts.

OUR FOCUS AREAS
We focus on victims of disasters and those who are disadvantaged 
and excluded whether through lack of opportunity, lack of 
resources, or just in need of a helping hand. As our business is in 
part based on insuring against natural disasters we know very well 
how disruptive they can be, so the largest Foundation donation  
is to MSF, who provide immediate aid in crisis situations (both 
natural and man-made) right across the globe. The Foundation 
has made significant financial commitments to charities that 
support families in crisis (Family Centre) and children with 
autism (Tomorrow’s Voices) in Bermuda, and charities supporting 
ex-offenders throughout the UK (St Giles Trust), and a poverty 
relief programme in the Philippines (ICM). But we also support 
them in other ways, for instance renovating premises for 
Tomorrow’s Voices, mentoring staff members for St Giles Trust 
and sending volunteers on week-long service missions to support 
some of the poorest communities in the Philippines with ICM.

We also make donations to charities suggested by staff and indeed 
by clients and brokers. In 2016, we supported Back Up Trust, 
Batten Disease Family Association, Skiing with Heroes, National 
Brain Appeal, Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Action Medical 
Research, Udaan India Foundation and SCARS, all at the 
suggestion of our business partners, helping to build the  
sense of an insurance community in Bermuda and London.

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
We recognise that the energy and talents of the people of 
Lancashire can make a difference in a number of ways, and  
that our charitable partnerships offer a valuable way to channel 
these generous instincts. We provide day release programmes  
for staff to give back to the communities in which they live and 
around the world. In addition, staff are entitled to up to a week’s  
annual charity leave on completion of three years’ permanent 
employment with the Group, which they can spend with a charity 
of their choice or with an existing Foundation-supported entity. 
The Lancashire Foundation also operates a charity matching 
scheme to support individual staff members’ charitable initiatives. 
During 2016 such matched funds from the Foundation amounted 
to $27,373 and supported 13 charities.

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY IN ACTION

School Home Support

School Home Support (SHS) is an education charity. It works 
to ensure children are in school and ready to learn. SHS works 
with schools, local authorities and other children’s settings to 
provide personalised support to children and families, tackling 
the underlying barriers to a successful education to improve 
the life chances of children.

SHS has also developed an innovative new ‘early help’ 
programme that supports both children and parents during 
transition from home or nursery into primary school and from 
primary to secondary school. Part of the work involves raising 
aspirations and helping parents and children understand the 
link between doing well at school and future employment.

On 19 October 2016, Lancashire took part in an SHS 
Aspiration Session to introduce the idea of employment in the 
City of London to a small group of ten year old children from a 
primary school in south London, providing an insight into the 
corporate environment. SHS Aspiration Sessions are designed 
to raise ambitions for future employment and to overcome any 
misconceptions and fears that children (and their parents) 
have around working within a corporate environment.

“It was really helpful for the children to hear what the Lancashire 
employees’ jobs involve on a daily basis and what it is like to be 
working for the Lancashire Group. I would also like to take this 
opportunity to thank them for answering all of the children’s and 
adults’ questions. They were extremely patient with us and gave 
explanations that the children could really understand.”

Tracy, SHS Practitioner

“Thank you for the amazing trip and I thoroughly enjoyed it and 
definitely enjoyed looking at London’s amazing architecture. I would 
love to visit the building again and hope your company does well in 
the future. I loved the gift as well.”

Boy – aged ten

“Thank you for making our trip unforgettable. I know that I want to 
visit Lancashire Insurance Group again because of how you made it 
enjoyable and interesting. Plus you gave an amazing gift bag. You 
made me start to think more about my future. Thank you.”

Girl – aged ten

Paul Russell and Louise Byrne with the primary school children who took part in the School Home 
Support Aspiration Session.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

37

PERFORMANCE 
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY CONTINUED

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY IN ACTION

Project Transform

Every year, since 2010, six to eight employees from across  
the Group volunteer to travel to the Philippines and work 
alongside ICM for a week providing aid and support to those 
living in ultra-poverty. The 2016 Project Transform volunteers 
have reflected on their experience and summarised their 
thoughts below:

48

members of staff have volunteered to participate in ICM’s Project 
Transform in the Philippines since 2010.

“The Project Transform trip is well known amongst Lancashire 
employees as the experiences of previous participants are shared with 
such enthusiasm. However, being part of the trip first hand is another 
thing entirely.

 The communities we visited, in spite of having so many limitations  
in terms of food, shelter and opportunity, were incredibly friendly, 
positive and determined, and exceptionally humbling to be around. 
The tireless and selfless work of the ICM staff was also eye-opening, 
and there is a real focus not just at making improvements for people 
within the communities in the short term, but also at creating an 
overall environment in which long-term progress can be made 
– through education, cooperation and ongoing support.

 We returned from the trip feeling honoured to have been selected,  
and hopeful that our individual and combined contributions  
helped improve, in some way, the lives of people less privileged  
than ourselves.”

The 2016 Project Transform team pictured from left to right – Mark Carvalho, Alannah Brown, Edward Pycraft, Caroline Palmer, Chris Sharkey, Vikram Singh, Andrew Kemp and Richard Lopez.

38 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

ENVIRONMENT
Despite a small increase in reporting scope, total emissions for 
2016 have decreased by 9.0 per cent compared to 2015, with 
emissions per full-time employee (FTE) falling by 12.2 per cent.

With operations in London and Bermuda, and with clients and 
brokers around the globe, the Lancashire Group incurs the 
bulk of its carbon footprint as a result of airline travel, which is 
offset through an organised programme. The Group operates 
out of two offices, at 20 Fenchurch Street, London, and in 
Bermuda. The Group is also responsible for an apartment in 
Bermuda, which is used for temporary accommodation, for 
which data has been collected and reported for the first time 
this year.

Types of Emissions
Direct (Scope 1) Gas (kWh)
Refrigerant

Activity

Indirect (Scope 2) Electricity (kWh)
Indirect (Scope 3) Business Travel (km)
Additional Upstream 
Activities 
Other

Gross emissions
Gross emissions tCO2e per FTE
Carbon Credits
Net emission after offset

2016 
tCO2e
90.5
0.0
488.5
1,624.3

308.7
50.3
2,562.3
12.9
(2,563)
- 

2015 
tCO2e
60.4
0.0
590.2
1,754.4

346.6
63.7
2,815.3
14.7
(2,816)
- 

OUR APPROACH
The figures in this report are calculated over a 12-month 
period from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016. Lancashire 
uses the number of full-time employees (FTE) as its intensity 
metric, which this year shows a decrease of 12.2 per cent to 
12.9 tCO2e per FTE, compared to 14.7 tCO2e per FTE in 2015.

Where data was not available for 2016, values have been 
extrapolated by using available data or calculated using 
industry benchmarks.

OUR FOCUS AREAS
Using an operational control approach, Lancashire assessed  
its boundaries to identify all of the activities and facilities for 
which it is responsible and reported on all of the material 
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions including Scope 1, 2 and 3. 
Calculations performed follow the ISO-14064-1:2006 standard 
and give absolute and intensity factors for the Group’s emissions.

The Group’s UK operations recently achieved BREEAM 
excellence for the offices at 20 Fenchurch Street,  
which has supported an overall improvement in 
environmental performance.

Therefore, results show that GHG emissions in the year  
were 2,562.3 tonnes of CO2e, comprised of direct emissions 
(Scope 1) amounting to 90.5 tonnes of CO2e, and indirect 
emissions (Scope 2) amounting to 488.5 tonnes of CO2e. The 
source of other indirect emissions (Scope 3) comprised 1,983.3 
tonnes of CO2e. Scope 2 emissions decreased by 17.2 per cent 
compared with 2015 due to a 7.2 per cent reduction in overall 
consumption and the decarbonisation of the UK power grid. 
Scope 3 emissions have also decreased compared with 2015 
due to a reduction in air travel, most notably domestic and 
short haul flights. Scope 1 emissions have increased by 49.8 per 
cent due to 2016 being a colder year than 2015, resulting in  
an increase in gas usage at the Fenchurch Street office.

Lancashire has purchased carbon credits to reduce its gross 
GHG emissions by 2,562.3 tonnes, offsetting its total carbon 
emissions and remaining carbon neutral.

The Group has chosen to offset its carbon emissions with 
Carbon Clear by buying credits in a project to supply low-
smoke cooking stoves to communities in the Darfur region  
of Sudan. These offsetting proposals were discussed and 
agreed with the Group’s CEO.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

39

PERFORMANCE 
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY CONTINUED

MARKETPLACE
We continue to help the development of our marketplace  
by making employees available to sit on market committees, 
boards and working groups. In 2016, our employees have given 
talks at industry conferences, investor days and symposia, and 
market education programmes. As noted on page 37, we also 
donate to many of the causes supported by our industry 
partners through the Foundation.

OUR APPROACH
We believe the most important thing we can do is to make the 
talents of our people available, and we do this happily. We also 
engage actively with our regulators in Bermuda and London, 
and the Cathedral team is active within the Lloyd’s market. 
With our clients and their brokers, we are happy to welcome 
them to our offices, but we also travel to see them and their 
businesses all around the world.

OUR FOCUS AREAS
Regulators: we recognise the need to engage closely with our 
regulators at the PRA, FCA, BMA and at Lloyd’s and seek to  
be transparent in all our dealings with them.

Clients: we strive to offer clear, fairly priced and useful 
products that meet their needs across our range of 
underwriting operations.

Brokers: we are fully committed to supporting a ‘broker 
market’ and prize our broker relationships very highly, right 
across the Group.

Investors: we continue to work hard at investor relations and 
have an active programme of engagement with investors 
around the globe.

WORKPLACE
We strive to attract and retain excellent employees who drive 
our appetite to outperform. Every company says it, but we truly 
believe that the talents of our people and our unique culture 
set us apart from our competitors.

Recruiting the right people for the Group will always be a high 
priority for the business. It is critical that the aspirations and 
values of new recruits are a good match to both the role and 
the values of Lancashire.

The Group promotes an inclusive environment that  
recognises and values diversity as key to enhancing individual 
development and maximising business effectiveness. One  
way in which we seek to increase diversity, and promote the 
values of the Group, is through our ‘Respect in the Workplace’ 
training sessions which are given to all new employees during 
their induction. The training sessions aim to highlight their 
responsibilities in preventing discrimination in the workplace 
and in fostering a positive and productive working environment.

Compulsory training is provided to new permanent staff  
and fixed term contract staff in relation to a number of topics 
as follows:

•  Tax/Regulatory Operating Guidelines;
•  Disclosure (including share dealing);
•  Inspections;
•  Financial Crime;
•  ERM; and
•  Communications etiquette.

Other training may be held on an ad hoc, one-off or 
refresher basis.

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY IN ACTION

Internship Programme

In 2014, both the Group and the Foundation jointly sponsored two  
internship positions for Bermuda resident college graduates. These graduates 
were afforded the opportunity to spend two years working and learning about 
insurance in the Group’s London office and completed their placements during 
2016. One of these graduates is now a full-time employee within Lancashire and 
the other has obtained a role at another market insurer in Bermuda. The Group 
is pleased to confirm that we have welcomed one further graduate in the 
summer of 2016.

Andrew Fleming, Intern

“The opportunities afforded to me in being selected for the Lancashire Foundation Graduate Development Programme have thus far proven themselves 
to be boundless. Through Lancashire Group’s international presence, I am able to both grasp a firm understanding of how the Bermuda market 
functions, as well as explore the dynamic London market – all while building the skills that I will need to be successful in the (re)insurance industry. 
This, combined with a company culture that encourages questions and champions open communication, has made it both incredibly easy and 
interesting to learn about the different aspects of the business. Indeed, though underwriting comes first at Lancashire, the exposure to the greater 
picture that the rotation in the Lancashire Foundation Graduate Development Programme offers, provides a sound foundation from which I can 
launch my career and a future that is geared towards success.”

40 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

The training is designed to ensure that all personnel who are 
employed by the Group are provided with the skills, knowledge 
and expertise appropriate to their responsibilities.

Among the full-time staff, the turnover for the Group for 2016 
was 20.1 per cent (an increase from 8.9 per cent in 2015), and 
as at 31 December 2016, 13.1 per cent of the workforce was 
composed of third-party contractors, an increase from 3.5 per 
cent in 2015. The relatively high rate of staff turnover and 
third-party contractors was driven principally by changes in 
our Lloyd’s platform, where there was a process of refreshment 
and renewal implemented during the year (see the CEO 
statement and Chairman’s governance introductory  
statement on pages 14 and 42 for further discussion).

Lancashire complies with all relevant local Bermudian and  
UK legal requirements, in particular with respect to rights of 
freedom of association, collective bargaining and working 
time regulations.

OUR FOCUS AREAS
Our focus in 2016 has been to maintain the success of our 
employees through ongoing training and coaching – provided 
both internally and externally. During 2016 almost 32 per cent 
of our employees undertook formal training supported by  
the Group. We continue to measure our employees’ success 
through attainment of personal performance metrics as well  
as performance within the Group’s values framework. We are 
delighted that during 2016 approximately 9.6 per cent of our 
employees were promoted within the Group supported by  
the training and development opportunities provided. An  
area for further development during 2017 will be greater 
standardisation of the appraisal and training frameworks 
across the Group.

EMBRACING DIVERSITY
We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer. 
The Group is currently represented by employees from  
ten different nations. The gender split of males to females  
(see page 56) within the Group is 61/39 per cent respectively.

Recruiting the right people for the Group is a high priority  
for the business and we promote the value of having a diverse 
workforce. We base all recruitment decisions on the ability of 
our prospective employees to do the job, without consideration 
to race, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, beliefs,  
or background. 

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY IN ACTION

Bermuda Zoological 
Society

The Bermuda Zoological Society (‘BZS’) is  
the support charity for the Bermuda Aquarium,  
Museum & Zoo (‘BAMZ’). Their mission statement 
is: “The shared mission of BAMZ and the BZS is to inspire 
appreciation and care of island environments. We fulfill  
our mission through our animal habitat exhibits, which 
focus on species from oceanic islands, as well as related 
environmental education, conservation projects and  
research programmes.”

On 16 September 2016 Bermuda staff spent  
their annual day of giving on Trunk Island,  
the BZS living classroom and nature reserve.  
In 2015, BZS purchased a 2.4 acre lot on the  
island and have spent considerable time creating a 
comprehensive restoration plan under the guidance 
of Dr David Wingate. He is a well known Bermudian 
ornithologist, naturalist and conservationist and 
under his direction the staff culled invasive species  
as well as performed general landscaping tasks.

“Trunk Island provides numerous and unique educational 
opportunities for Bermuda school students and the 
community. However, it does require significant people 
power to maintain and improve the island. We at the 
Bermuda Zoological Society could not do it without the 
support of our corporate community. The Lancashire 
Group has been a major supporter of this project and we  
are very grateful for everything that they have helped us 
with. We look forward to working with them in the future 
and showing the many improvements that they helped to 
make happen!”

Dr Ian Walker, Principal Curator

“Thank you to the Lancashire Group for their support  
of Trunk Island. You accomplished a lot and kept our  
staff and volunteers busy with your enthusiasm and 
commitment. Please come back again!”

Joanne Chrisnall, Volunteer Co-ordinator

Lancashire Bermuda staff at their annual day of giving on Trunk Island.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

41

PERFORMANCE 
CHAIRMAN’S INTRODUCTION

GOOD GOVERNANCE AND
A POSITIVE CULTURE

How does the Board set and monitor  
the governance objectives for the Group?

By virtue of its premium listing on the LSE, Lancashire 
measures its corporate governance compliance against  
the requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code 
published by the UK FRC. The FCA requires each company 
with a premium listing to ‘comply or explain’ against the Code 
(i.e. to disclose how it has complied with Code provisions or, if 
the Code provisions have not been complied with, provide an 
explanation for the non-compliance). The Group monitors its 
compliance with the Code on at least a quarterly basis, and in 
this corporate governance section and throughout this Annual 
Report and Accounts for the 2016 financial year, areas of 
corporate governance compliance are explained by reference 
to the Code. The Company also monitors its compliance  
with applicable corporate governance requirements under 
Bermuda law and regulations. In 2016 the PRA became the 
Group supervisor in accordance with the requirements of  
the UK’s Solvency II regime.

I am pleased to be able to report that there are no areas  
of material non-compliance with the Code. As a Board and 
business we seek to use the formal consideration of governance 
and regulatory requirements not merely as a ‘box ticking’ 
exercise, but as useful tools for the structuring of agendas and 
the consideration of matters of risk and opportunity that are  
of real commercial and strategic benefit to the Group.

Is the Board effective in shaping a positive 
corporate culture?

Lancashire strives to implement simple yet effective systems  
of corporate governance in a way that helps shape strategy, 
monitors its implementation, balances support and challenge 
for management and the business and embeds a positive and 
open corporate culture throughout the Group.

Good strategic debate and decision-making remain central  
to the work of any board. At Lancashire we are fortunate in 
having a nimble strategy and a simple ‘flat’ structure with a 
total employee headcount at 31 December 2016 of 198. This 
means that all our Directors have regular opportunities to 
meet with both the members of our management team and 
other employees within the business. That helps inform our 
Board’s active understanding of the business, its needs 
and challenges.

Further to the requirements of Solvency II, UK regulated 
insurers are required to prepare an ORSA report. Both the 
management team and the Board have engaged fully with  
the ORSA process, and use it as a tool to help deepen our 
understanding of our business, better understand the risks and 
opportunities facing it and to refine and focus Lancashire’s 
strategic thinking and priorities.

PETER CLARKE
Non-Executive Chairman

Governance, when done well, helps 
facilitate clear communication, constructive 
challenge and debate and creative strategic 
decision making. It cultivates a positive, 
open and balanced culture throughout 
our business.

In my opening statement I discussed those areas in which our business  
and Board addressed the challenges of 2016 within the context of our 
strategic objectives. The following section focuses on the formal work 
carried out by the Board and its Committees in exercising effective 
oversight, taking decisions and providing support and constructive 
challenge to the business.

42 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

During 2016 our Board once again used the services of 
Lintstock Limited (a third-party provider of board evaluation 
services) in facilitating a review of the effectiveness of our 
Board, its Committees and our Directors. A summary report 
was discussed by the full Board and I am pleased to report  
the conclusion that the Board and each of its Committees  
are considered to have a balance of skills and perspectives  
that serve the Group effectively and enable them to meet the 
challenges of the business. As a Board we have also gained 
useful insights and identified various areas for training and 
learning during the coming year. I would like to thank all  
of our Directors for their hard work during the year.

What changes have there been to the Board and 
governance teams during 2016?

At our AGM in 2016 I became LHL Chairman in planned 
succession to Martin Thomas. Martin had served in that role 
since 2006, soon after the Company’s formation. In July 2016 
Emma Duncan stepped down as a Non-Executive Director 
after six years’ service on the Board. Both Martin and Emma 
have contributed to Lancashire’s success as a respected 
international specialty insurer and reinsurer and an 
established member of the FTSE 250 with a track record of 
generating superior returns for its investors. Our good wishes 
and thanks go to them. We have also been fortunate to have 
recruited Robert Lusardi and Michael Dawson to our Board. 

They bring a wealth of underwriting and insurance industry 
experience to our Board.

On our subsidiary boards, 2016 witnessed a changing of the 
guard at CUL. Tony South (the CUL Chairman), Robin Oakes 
and Elvin Patrick have left the CUL Board after many years’ 
service and we were delighted to welcome Nick Davenport  
and Lance Gibbins as new independent Non-Executive 
Directors of CUL. Simon Fraser, the Group’s Senior 
Independent Non-Executive Director, also joined the CUL 
Board. In February 2017, Nick will assume the role of CUL 
Chairman from Tony Minns, who has decided to step down 
having served as a CUL Non-Executive Director for many 
years, and latterly as CUL Chairman.

Following Martin’s departure, Steve Smart assumed the 
Chairmanship on the LUK Board and we also welcome  
Adrian Colosso as a valued member of that Board. Samantha 
Hoe-Richardson, Chairman of the Group’s Audit Committee, 
also joined the LUK Board as a Non-Executive Director.

Peter Clarke
Non-Executive Chairman

OUR GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE

Group 
Board

LANCASHIRE HOLDINGS LIMITED
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Group 
Committees

AUDIT 
COMMITTEE

NOMINATION 
& CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

INVESTMENT 
COMMITTEE

UNDERWRITING
& UNDERWRITING
RISK COMMITTEE

REMUNERATION 
COMMITTEE

Page 50

Page 55

Page 57

Page 58

Page 59

Operational 
Boards

LUK 
BOARD

LICL  
BOARD

KCML 
BOARD

CUL
 BOARD

www.lancashiregroup.com 

43

GOVERNANCE 
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

A WELL-BALANCED
BOARD

Peter Clarke
Non-Executive Chairman 

Alex Maloney
Chief Executive Officer 

Elaine Whelan
Chief Financial Officer 

Michael Dawson
Non-Executive Director 

Alex Maloney joined Lancashire in 
December 2005 and was appointed 
Group Chief Executive Officer in 
April 2014. On joining, Mr Maloney  
was responsible for establishing and 
building the energy underwriting 
team and account and, in May 2009, 
was appointed Group Chief 
Underwriting Officer. Since 
November 2010 Mr Maloney has 
served as a member of the Board  
and was appointed Chief Executive 
Officer of Lancashire Insurance 
Company (UK) Limited in 2012. 
Mr Maloney also serves as a Director 
of Cathedral Underwriting Limited 
and has been closely involved in the 
development of the Group’s Lloyd’s 
strategy. Mr Maloney has over 20 
years’ underwriting experience and 
has also worked in the New York and 
Bermuda markets. 

Elaine Whelan joined Lancashire  
in March 2006 and leads both the 
Group finance function and the 
Bermuda subsidiary, reporting to  
the Group Chief Executive Officer. 
Ms Whelan was previously Chief 
Accounting Officer of Zurich 
Insurance Company, Bermuda 
Branch. Prior to joining Zurich, 
Ms Whelan was an Audit Manager at 
PricewaterhouseCoopers, Bermuda, 
where she managed a portfolio of 
predominantly (re)insurance and 
captive insurance clients. Ms Whelan  
graduated from the University of 
Strathclyde in 1994 with a BA in 
Accounting and Economics and 
gained her Chartered Accountancy 
qualification from the Institute of 
Chartered Accountants of Scotland 
in 1997.

Michael Dawson has more than 35 
years’ experience in the insurance 
industry, having started his career  
at Lloyd’s in 1979. He joined Cox 
Insurance in 1986 where he was the 
Chief Executive from 1995 to 2002. 
In 1991, Mr Dawson formed and 
became the underwriter of Cox’s and 
subsequently Chaucer’s specialist 
nuclear syndicate 1176. Between 
2005 and 2008 Mr Dawson was 
appointed Chief Executive of 
Goshawk Insurance Holdings PLC 
and its subsidiary Rosemont Re, a 
Bermuda reinsurer. Mr Dawson  
served on the Council of Lloyd’s 
from 1998 to 2001 and on the Lloyd’s 
Market Board from 1998 to 2002. He 
is a Non-Executive Director of Pool 
Re (Nuclear) Limited and Deputy 
Chairman of the management 
committee of Nuclear Risk 
Insurers Limited.

Peter Clarke was Group Chief 
Executive of Man Group plc between 
April 2007 and February 2013. In 
1993 Mr Clarke joined Man Group 
plc, a leading global provider of 
alternative investment products and 
solutions as well as one of the world’s 
largest futures brokers. He was 
appointed to the board in 1997 and 
served in a variety of roles, including 
Head of Corporate Finance and 
Corporate Affairs and Group 
Company Secretary, before becoming 
the Group Finance Director in 2000. 
During this period he was responsible 
for investing in and developing one 
of the leading providers of third-party 
capital insurance and reinsurance 
products. In November 2005, he was 
given the additional title of Group 
Deputy CEO. Mr Clarke is currently 
the Chairman of the National 
Teaching Awards Trust and a 
Non-Executive Director of AXA 
Investment Managers S.A., RWC 
Partners Limited and Lombard 
Odier Asset Management. He is a 
member of the Treasury Committee 
of King’s College London. Mr Clarke  
took a first in Law at Queens’ 
College, Cambridge and is a  
qualified solicitor, having practised  
at Slaughter and May, and has 
experience in the investment 
banking industry, working at  
Morgan Grenfell and Citibank. 

44 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Simon Fraser
Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director

Simon Fraser was Head of 
Corporate Broking at Merrill 
Lynch and subsequently 
Bank of America Merrill 
Lynch until his retirement  
in 2011. He began his career 
in the City in 1986 with BZW 
and joined Merrill Lynch in 
1997. He led Initial Public 
Offerings, Rights Issues, 
Placings, Demergers and 
Mergers and Acquisitions 
transactions during his 
career and advised many UK 
companies on stock market 
and LSE issues. Mr Fraser  
has an MA degree in modern 
history from the University  
of St Andrews. He is also  
a Non-Executive Director  
of Legal and General 
Investment Management 
(Holdings) Limited and 
Senior Independent Director 
of Derwent London plc, 
where he chairs the 
Remuneration Committee 
and sits on the Audit and 
Nominations Committees. 
Mr Fraser also serves  
as a Non-Executive  
Director of Cathedral 
Underwriting Limited.

Samantha Hoe-Richardson
Non-Executive Director 

Robert Lusardi
Non-Executive Director 

Tom Milligan
Non-Executive Director 

Christopher Head
Company Secretary 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson, 
who since 2014 has been 
Chairman of the Audit 
Committee, is Head of 
Environment and 
Sustainability for Network 
Rail. Prior to this, she was 
Head of Environment for 
Anglo American plc, one of 
the world’s leading mining 
and natural resources 
companies. She was also a 
director of Anglo American 
Zimele Green Fund (Pty) 
Ltd, which supports 
entrepreneurs in South 
Africa. Prior to her role  
with Anglo American,  
Ms Hoe-Richardson worked 
in investment banking and 
audit and she holds a masters 
degree in nuclear and 
electrical engineering from 
the University of Cambridge. 
She also has a Chartered 
Accountancy qualification. 
Ms Hoe-Richardson is also  
a Non-Executive Director 
of LUK.

Robert Lusardi is currently  
a private investor and has 
spent his career as a senior 
executive in the financial 
services industry. From  
1980 until 1998 he was  
an investment banker with 
Lehman Brothers, ultimately 
as Managing Director in 
charge of the insurance and 
asset management practices. 
From 1998 until 2005 he was 
a member of the Executive 
Management Board of XL 
Group plc, first as Group 
CFO then as CEO of one  
of their three operating/
reporting segments; from 
2005 until 2010 he was an 
EVP of White Mountains  
(an insurance merchant 
bank) and CEO of certain 
subsidiaries; and from 2010 
to 2015 he was CEO of 
PremieRe Holdings LLC.  
He has been a director of a 
number of insurance related 
entities including Symetra 
Financial Corporation, 
Primus Guaranty Ltd., 
OneBeacon Insurance 
Group Ltd., Esurance Inc., 
Delos Inc. and FSA 
International Ltd. He is  
also on the board of Oxford 
University’s 501(c)3 
charitable organisation.  
He received his BA and MA 
degrees in Engineering and 
Economics from Oxford 
University and his MBA  
from Harvard University.

Tom Milligan was Co-Chief 
Executive Officer of Ariel Re 
Holdings Ltd., until his 
retirement in 2015. He 
began his career in the City 
in 1991 with Guy Carpenter 
& Co. and worked in both 
London and Bermuda as an 
insurance intermediary and 
underwriter. In 2005, 
Mr Milligan joined Goldman 
Sachs Group Inc. to start the 
GS Reinsurance Group’s 
non-life activities. As a 
Managing Director of 
Goldman Sachs, 
Mr Milligan served as Chief 
Underwriting Officer of 
Arrow Capital Re in 
Bermuda, before starting 
Goldman Sachs-owned 
Lloyd’s Syndicate 1910 in 
2008 and serving as Active 
Underwriter until 2012. In 
2012, Mr Milligan led 
Goldman Sachs’ purchase of 
Ariel Re and served as 
Co-CEO from April 2012 
until July 2014. During 2013, 
Mr Milligan played a leading 
role in the spin-off of GS 
Reinsurance Group into 
Global Atlantic Financial 
Group (‘GAFG’), before 
managing the sale of the 
Ariel businesses from GAFG 
to BTG Pactual in 2014. He 
is also a Non-Executive 
Director of Managing 
Agency Partners Limited. 
Mr Milligan graduated from 
Durham University in 1991.

Christopher Head joined 
Lancashire in September 
2010. He was appointed 
Company Secretary of 
Lancashire Holdings Limited 
in 2012 and advises on issues 
of corporate governance and 
generally on legal affairs for 
the Group. He also advises 
on the structuring of 
Lancashire’s third-party 
capital underwriting 
initiatives which have 
included the Accordion  
and Kinesis facilities. Prior  
to joining Lancashire, he was 
in-house Counsel with the 
Imagine Insurance Group, 
advising specifically on the 
structuring of reinsurance 
transactions. He transferred 
to Max at Lloyd’s in 2008  
as Lloyd’s and London 
Counsel. Between 1998  
and 2006 Mr Head was  
Legal Counsel at KWELM 
Management Services 
Limited, where he managed 
an intensive programme  
of reinsurance arbitration 
and litigation for insolvent 
members of the HS Weavers 
underwriting pool. 
Mr Head is a UK solicitor 
having worked until 1998  
at Barlow Lyde and Gilbert 
in the Reinsurance and 
International Risk Team. 
Mr Head has a history MA 
and legal qualification from 
Cambridge University.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

45

GOVERNANCE 
OUR BOARD’S YEAR

HIGHLIGHTS OF 
THE BOARD’S YEAR

FEBRUARY / Q1 MEETING

JUNE / BOARD STRATEGY DAY

•  In light of Martin Thomas’s planned 

retirement as a Director and Chairman  
of the Board at the conclusion of the 2016 
AGM, the Board decided to appoint  
Peter Clarke as his successor. The Board 
approved the appointment of Simon 
Fraser as a Non-Executive Director 
of CUL.

•  The Board reviewed and approved the 

Group’s 2016 business plan that had been 
updated in light of the 1 January renewals 
and then current market conditions.
•  Following its quarterly review of capital 

management, the Board declared a final 
ordinary dividend of $0.10 per common 
share in respect of the year ended 31 
December 2015.

•  The Board reviewed the Group’s 2016 
framework for executive remuneration.
•  The Board approved the Group’s Annual 
Report on Remuneration, as set out in  
the second part of the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report for the year ended 
31 December 2015, for presentation to 
shareholders for approval at the 
2016 AGM.

•  The Board approved the Annual Report 

and Accounts 2015.

APRIL / Q2 MEETING

•  The Board approved the Solvency II 

opening submissions as at 1 January 2016 
for submission to the PRA.

•  The Board reviewed and adopted  

the Group’s 2016 investment strategy.
•  The Board received an annual investor 
relations presentation from the Group’s 
corporate brokers.

•  The Company’s 2016 AGM was held at its 

Head Office on 4 May 2016. All resolutions 
were duly passed.

•  The objective of the 2016 strategy day  
was to consider the key decisions to be 
made in the preparation of the Group’s 
three-year strategic plan. The agenda for 
the day included:
•  review of the current strategy, including 

the underwriting, investment and 
capital management strategies;
•  a presentation on the London  
and International specialty and 
reinsurance markets;

•  consideration of the business’s 
resourcing and training needs;

•  review of the emerging and strategic 

risks identified during the past 
12 months; and

•  discussion of the strategic themes  

and options for the business.

JULY / Q3 MEETING

•  The Board approved the appointment  
of Robert Lusardi as a Non-Executive 
Director and acknowledged the retirement 
of Emma Duncan.

•  The Board approved the Group’s 2016 

reforecast business plan in light of market 
conditions and expectations following the 
1 July renewals and actual experience  
to 30 June.

•  The Board declared an interim dividend 

of $0.05 per common share.

•  The Board approved and adopted  

the Group’s three-year strategic plan, 
including the Group’s risk, and capital  
and solvency appetites.

•  The Board approved and adopted the 

three-year strategy and business plan for 
the Cathedral group of companies.
•  The Board approved and adopted the 
Company’s ERM strategic objectives 
and plan.

•  The Board received and approved  
a recommendation from the Audit 
Committee that a recommendation  
be made to shareholders for approval  
at the 2017 AGM to appoint KPMG  
as the Company’s external auditors.

46 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

•  The Board approved and adopted a 

Group-Wide Share Dealing Policy and  
a revised Group Share Dealing Code 
following the implementation of the 
Market Abuse Regulation in July 2016.

•  The Board approved and adopted  

an updated division of responsibilities 
between the Chairman and the CEO 
together with an updated statement on the 
representation of women on the Board,  
on executive committees and in senior 
management, which is published on  
the Group’s website.

•  The Board approved amendments to the 
Group’s investment portfolio guidelines.
•  The Board approved the change of the 
Group’s corporate brokers to Morgan 
Stanley and received a presentation  
from their team on the current market 
conditions and outlook, particularly  
in light of the Brexit vote.

NOVEMBER / Q4 MEETING

•  The Board declared a special dividend  
for 2016 of $0.75 per common share.

•  The Board approved and adopted  
the Group’s 2017 business plan.

•  The Board approved the  

appointment of Michael Dawson  
as a Non-Executive Director.

•  The Board approved and adopted  

the Group’s updated succession plan.
•  The annual performance evaluation  
of the Board and its Committees and 
individual Directors was commissioned,  
to be facilitated by Lintstock Limited.
•  The Board approved the appointment  

of Samantha Hoe-Richardson as a 
Non-Executive Director of LUK.

DECEMBER

•  The Board approved the Group ORSA 

report for submission to the PRA.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT

BOARD
COMMITTEES

THE DIRECTORS
Appointments to the Board are made on merit, against 
objective criteria and with due regard for the benefits of 
diversity on the Board, including gender. The Board considers 
all of the Non-Executive Directors to be independent within 
the meaning of the Code.

Michael Dawson, Simon Fraser, Samantha Hoe-Richardson, 
Robert Lusardi and Tom Milligan are independent, as each  
is independent in character and judgement and has no 
relationship or circumstance likely to affect his or her 
independence. Peter Clarke was independent upon  
his appointment as Chairman on 4 May 2016. At the  
Board meeting held on 15 February 2017, further to  
a recommendation by the Nomination and Corporate 
Governance Committee, the Board affirmed its judgement 
that five of the eight members of the Board are independent 
Non-Executive Directors. Therefore, in the Board’s judgement, 
the Board composition complies with the Code requirement 
that at least half the Board, excluding the Chairman, should 
comprise Non-Executive Directors determined by the Board  
to be independent.

During 2016 the Board noted Alex Maloney’s acquisition of  
an interest in a Lloyd’s Nameco (further details of which are 
set out on page 154), and the resultant alignment with the 
Names on Syndicate 2010.

In accordance with the provisions of the Code, all the 
Directors of the Company are submitting themselves for 
re-election at the 2017 AGM.

BOARD AND COMMITTEE ADMINISTRATION
The Board of Directors is responsible for the leadership and 
control and the long-term success of Lancashire’s business. 
The Board has reserved a number of matters for its decision, 
including responsibility for setting the Group’s values and 
standards, and approval of the Group’s strategic aims and 
objectives. The Board has delegated certain matters to 
Committees of the Board, as described below. Copies of the 
Schedule of Board Reserved Matters and Terms of Reference 
of the Board Committees are on the Company’s website at 
www.lancashiregroup.com.

The Board has approved and adopted an updated formal 
division of responsibilities between the Chairman and the 
CEO. The Chairman is responsible for the leadership and 
management of the Board and for providing appropriate 
support and advice to the CEO. The CEO is responsible  
for the management of the Group’s business and for the 
development of the Group’s strategy and commercial 
objectives. The CEO is responsible, along with the  
executive team, for implementing the Board’s decisions.

The Board and its Committees meet on at least a quarterly 
basis. At the regular quarterly Board meetings, the Directors 
review all areas of the Group’s business and receive reports 
from management on underwriting, reserving, finance, capital 
management, internal audit, risk, compliance and other 
matters affecting the Group. Management provides the Board 
with the information necessary for it to fulfil its responsibilities. 
In addition, presentations are made by external advisers such 
as the independent actuary, the investment managers, the 
external auditors, the remuneration consultants and the 
corporate brokers. The Board Committees are authorised to 
seek independent professional advice at the Company’s expense.

The Board also meets to discuss strategic planning matters 
outside the formal meeting schedule. A Board strategy day  
was held in June 2016.

The Chairman holds regular meetings with the Non-Executive 
Directors without the Executive Directors present, to discuss  
a broad range of matters affecting the Group.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

47

GOVERNANCE 
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

INFORMATION AND TRAINING
On appointment, the Directors receive written information 
regarding their responsibilities as Directors and information 
about the Group. An induction process is tailored for each  
new Director in the light of his or her existing skill set and 
knowledge of the Group, and includes meeting with senior 
management and visiting the Group’s operations. Information 
and advice regarding the Company’s official list, legal and 
regulatory obligations and on the Group’s compliance with  
the requirements of the Code is also provided on a regular 
basis. An analysis of the Group’s compliance with the Code  
is collated and summarised in quarterly reports together  
with a more general summary of corporate governance 
developments, which are prepared by the Group’s Legal and 
Compliance department for consideration by the Nomination 
and Corporate Governance Committee. The Directors have 
access to the Company Secretary who is responsible for 
advising the Board on all legal and governance matters. The 
Directors also have access to the Group General Counsel and 
independent professional advice as required. Regular sessions 
are held between the Board and management as part of the 
Company’s quarterly Board meetings, during which in-depth 
presentations covering areas of the Group’s business are  
made. During these presentations the Directors have the 
opportunity to consider, challenge and help shape the  
Group’s commercial strategy.

BOARD PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
A formal performance evaluation of the Board, its Committees 
and individual Directors is undertaken on an annual basis and 
the process is initiated by the Nomination and Corporate 
Governance Committee. The aim of this work is to assess  
the effectiveness of the Board and its Committees in terms  
of performance, composition, supporting processes and 
management of the Group, as well as to review each Director’s 
performance, training and development needs. The 2014 
performance evaluation was conducted internally, whilst in 
2015 and 2016 the evaluations were facilitated by Lintstock 
Limited, a London-based corporate advisory firm with no 
other connection to the Group.

The 2016 evaluation process involved each Director  
as well as the Company Secretary, the Group CRO and the 
Group General Counsel completing a confidential online 
questionnaire designed by Lintstock and with input from the 
LHL Chairman and the Chairmen of each of the relevant 
Committees. Responses to the completed questionnaires were 
collated by Lintstock, who then prepared a suite of summary 
reports that were discussed in draft with the Chairman before 
being distributed to each of the Directors.

48 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

In February 2017, the Lintstock performance evaluation 
reports were discussed at meetings of the Nomination and 
Corporate Governance Committee and the Board, and each  
of the other Committees discussed the report pertinent to its 
own operation and performance. The Board discussions were 
led by the Chairman and focused on such matters as strategic 
oversight, succession planning, Board composition and training.

In summary, in the Board’s consideration of the 2016 
evaluation reports, the Board concluded that it operates 
effectively and has a good blend of insurance, financial  
and regulatory expertise. All Non-Executive Directors are 
committed to the continued success of the Group and to 
making the Board and its Committees work effectively. 
Attendance at Board meetings was found to be excellent.  
The CEO and the CFO, the Company’s Executive Directors, 
were also found to be operating effectively.

Appropriate infrastructure, processes and governance 
mechanisms are in place to support the effective performance 
of the Board and its Committees. The Board is considered to 
manage risk effectively. The number of Directors on the  
Board is considered to be appropriate.

The evaluation process proved a useful learning exercise. 
Amongst the principal themes identified, the Board 
considered the attributes required in future Non-Executive 
appointments, and agreed on the need to ensure sufficient 
time for the discussion and exploration of strategy and to 
continue to develop the understanding of the views of 
shareholders. A number of areas in which to optimise  
the focus of Board and Committee meetings were also 
identified for action.

The Board will continue to review its procedures, training 
requirements, effectiveness and development during 2017.

The Chairman’s performance appraisal was conducted by  
the Senior Independent Director, who consulted with the 
Non-Executive Directors with input from the Executive 
Directors during November 2016. The discussion and feedback 
was extremely positive regarding all aspects of the Chairman’s 
performance. Particular mention was made of the time he 
spends with the business and his support of the senior 
executives. It was noted that the Chairman also attends (at  
the invitation of the relevant Committee Chairman) meetings 
of those Committees of which he is not an appointed member, 
thus tracking the detail of Committees’ decision-making, as 
well as providing strategic and high level leadership to 
the Board.

At the end of the year, the Chairman met with the CEO,  
and the CEO met with the CFO, to conduct a performance 
appraisal in respect of 2016 and to set targets for 2017. The 
results of these performance evaluations were discussed by the 
Chairman and the Non-Executive Directors and are reported 
in the Directors’ Remuneration Report commencing on 
page 61.

Non-Executive Directors
Peter Clarke1
Michael Dawson
Simon Fraser
Samantha Hoe-Richardson2
Robert Lusardi
Tom Milligan3
Executive Directors
Alex Maloney
Elaine Whelan

Original date of  
appointment to Board

Board

Audit  
Committee

Nomination  
and Corporate 
Governance  
Committee

Investment  
Committee

Underwriting  
and Underwriting 
Risk Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

9 June 2014
3 November 2016
5 November 2013
20 February 2013
8 July 2016
3 February 2015

5 November 2010
1 January 2013

5/5
1/1
5/5
5/5
3/3
5/5

5/5
5/5

2/2
–
5/5
5/5
2/2
1/1

–
–

2/2
0/0
–
4/4
–
2/2

–
–

4/4
–
–
–
2/2
4/4

–
4/4

–
0/0
–
–
–
4/4

4/4
–

4/4
0/0
4/4
2/2
2/2
–

–
–

(1)  Peter Clarke resigned as a member of the Audit Committee, and was appointed as Chairman and a member of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee, with effect from his appointment as Chairman of 

the Board on 4 May 2016.

(2)  Samantha Hoe-Richardson served as a member of the Remuneration Committee from 4 May 2016 to 3 November 2016.
(3) Tom Milligan served as a member of the Audit Committee from 4 May 2016 to 8 July 2016. He was appointed as a member of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee with effect from 8 July 2016.

RELATIONS WITH SHAREHOLDERS
During 2016, the Group’s Head of Investor Relations, usually 
accompanied by one or more of the CEO, the CUO, the CFO, 
the Chairman or a senior member of the underwriting team, 
made presentations to major shareholders, analysts and the 
investor community. Formal reports of these meetings were 
provided to the Board on at least a quarterly basis.

Conference calls with shareholders and analysts hosted  
by senior management are held quarterly following the 
announcement of the Group’s quarterly financial results.  
The CEO, CUO and CFO are generally available to answer 
questions at these presentations.

Shareholders are invited to request meetings with the 
Chairman, the Senior Independent Director and/or the other 
Non-Executive Directors by contacting the Head of Investor 
Relations. All of the Directors are expected to be available  
to meet with shareholders at the Company’s 2017 AGM.

The Company commissions regular independent shareholder 
analysis reports together with independent research on 
feedback from shareholders and analysts following the 
Company’s results announcements. This research, together 
with the analysts’ notes, is made available to all Directors.

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT
The Board is responsible for setting the Group’s risk appetites, 
defining its risk tolerances, and monitoring and ensuring 
compliance with those risk tolerances. During 2016, the Board 
carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks affecting 
the Group’s business model, future performance, solvency 
and liquidity.

Further discussion of the risks affecting the Group and the 
policies in place to manage them can be found in the risk 
disclosures section on pages 101 to 128.

Each of the Committees is responsible for various elements  
of risk. The CRO reports directly to the Group and subsidiary 
Boards and facilitates and aids the identification, evaluation, 
quantification and control of risks at a Group and subsidiary 
level. The CRO provides regular reports to the Group and 
subsidiary Boards covering, amongst other things, actual  
risk levels against tolerances, emerging risks and any lessons 
learned from risk events. During 2016 the Directors 
participated in a number of training sessions addressing the 
Board’s obligations under Solvency II and, in particular, with 
regard to the review and approval of the Group ORSA and 
solvency and risk regulatory reporting requirements. The 
Board considers that a supportive ERM culture, established  
at the Board and embedded throughout the business, is of  
key importance. The facilitating and embedding of ERM and 
helping the Group to improve its ERM practices is a major 
responsibility assigned to the CRO. The CRO’s remuneration 
is subject to annual review by the Remuneration Committee.

COMMITTEES
The Board has established Audit, Investment, Nomination and 
Corporate Governance, Underwriting and Underwriting Risk 
and Remuneration Committees. Each of the Committees has 
written Terms of Reference, which are reviewed regularly and 
are available on the Company’s website (www.lancashiregroup.
com). The Committees’ Terms of Reference were reviewed by 
the Board during 2016 and were considered to be in line with 
current best practice. The Committees are generally scheduled 
to meet quarterly, although additional meetings are arranged 
as business requirements dictate. The composition of the 
Committees as at 31 December 2016 was as set out in the table 
appearing above. A report from each of the Committees is set 
out from page 50 to page 60.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

49

GOVERNANCE 
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMITTEE
•  Monitors the integrity of the Group’s consolidated financial 
statements and any other formal announcement relating to 
the Group’s financial performance. Reports to the Board  
on significant financial reporting issues and judgements 
contained in the financial statements.

•  Reviews the content of the Annual Report and Accounts  

and advises the Board on whether, taken as a whole, it is fair, 
balanced and understandable.

•  Monitors developments in the Solvency II regulatory regime.
•  Oversees the relationship with the Group’s external auditors 
and is responsible for assessing annually their independence 
and objectivity, taking into account the relevant professional 
and regulatory requirements.

•  Makes a recommendation to the Board, to be put to 

shareholders for approval at the AGM, in relation to the 
appointment, re-appointment and removal of the Group’s 
external auditors.

•  Monitors and reviews the effectiveness of the Group’s 

Internal Audit function in the context of the Group’s overall 
risk management system.

•  Reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of the Group’s 

internal financial controls and internal control and risk 
management systems (including financial, operational  
and compliance controls).

•  Reviews for adequacy and security the Group’s 

‘whistleblowing’ arrangements, procedures for detecting 
fraud and systems and controls for the prevention of bribery 
and money laundering. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

AUDIT
COMMITTEE

SAMANTHA HOE-RICHARDSON
Chairman of the Audit Committee

‘The essential features of the Audit 
Committee’s relationship with the Board, 
with the executive management and with 
internal and external auditors are a frank, 
open working relationship and a high level 
of mutual respect.’  
(FRC – Guidance on Audit Committees)

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
The Audit Committee comprises three independent Non-Executive 
Directors and is chaired by Samantha Hoe-Richardson, a qualified 
accountant. The Board considers that the three independent Non-Executive 
Directors all have recent and relevant financial experience. The Audit 
Committee as a whole has competence in the specialty insurance and 
reinsurance sectors. The internal and external auditors have the right of 
direct access to the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee’s detailed 
Terms of Reference are available on the Company’s website.

Samantha Hoe-Richardson (Chairman)
Peter Clarke1
Simon Fraser
Robert Lusardi2
Tom Milligan3

Meetings attended
5/5
2/2
5/5
2/2
1/1

(1)  Peter Clarke resigned as a member of the Audit Committee with effect from his appointment as Chairman of the 

Board on 4 May 2016.

(2)  Robert Lusardi was appointed as a member of the Audit Committee with effect from 8 July 2016.
(3) Tom Milligan served as a member of the Audit Committee from 4 May 2016 to 8 July 2016.

50 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

HOW THE COMMITTEE DISCHARGED ITS RESPONSIBILITIES DURING 2016

FINANCIAL REPORTING

COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITY
Monitors the integrity of the Group’s 
consolidated financial statements and any 
other formal announcement relating to the 
Group’s financial performance. Reports to  
the Board on significant financial reporting 
issues and judgements contained in the 
financial statements.

Reviews the content of the Annual Report and 
Accounts and advises the Board on whether, 
taken as a whole, it is fair, balanced and 
understandable. 

SOLVENCY II

COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITY
Monitors developments in the Solvency II 
regulatory regime.

COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
At each quarterly meeting the Committee reviews the Company’s quarterly financial 
statements for the purposes of recommending their approval by the Board. The 
Committee also monitors the activities of the Company’s Disclosure Committee and 
reviews the Company’s quarterly financial press releases, which it recommends to the 
Board for approval. The Committee receives quarterly reports from management on:

 – developments in accounting and financial reporting requirements;

 – any new and/or significant accounting treatments/transactions in the quarter; and

 – loss reserving (see page 143 for further details).

An annual paper is also presented to the Committee that details the areas of 
judgement or estimation in the financial statements (see accounting policies page 95 
for the details of these areas). The Committee also considers quarterly reports on the 
financial statements from the external auditors, including an interim review results 
report and a year-end audit results report. These are discussed with the external 
auditors at the Committee’s meetings.

Of the areas of judgement or estimation considered by the Committee in 2016, those 
that were considered significant were loss reserving and the valuation of intangible 
assets. These are explained in further detail on page 54. In accordance with auditing 
guidance, the external auditors’ report includes revenue recognition through the 
estimation of premium revenues as an area of risk. The Audit Committee considered 
this and concluded that for Lancashire revenue recognition is straightforward and  
low risk. While some premiums are subject to estimation, revenues are unlikely to be 
materially different from initial estimates, particularly on a consolidated Group basis.

The Chairman of the Committee reviews early drafts of the Annual Report and 
Accounts to keep appraised of its key themes and messages and to raise any issues  
early in the process. The Committee reviewed the 2016 Annual Report and Accounts 
at the February 2017 Audit Committee meeting and advised the Board that the Annual 
Report and Accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and 
provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Company’s position 
and performance, business model and strategy.

COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
A quarterly report was provided during 2016 to the Committee by the CRO detailing 
the Group’s Solvency II activities and how the Group was meeting the requirements  
of the new regime. The comprehensive training programme to ensure that all Board 
members are able to discharge their Solvency II responsibilities was continued through 
2016 and will be sustained in 2017. 

www.lancashiregroup.com 

51

GOVERNANCE 
COMMITTEE REPORTS CONTINUED

EXTERNAL AUDIT

COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITY
Oversees the relationship with the Group’s 
external auditors and is responsible for 
assessing annually their independence and 
objectivity, taking into account the relevant 
professional and regulatory requirements, 
specifically including:

 – An annual assessment of the qualifications, 
expertise and resources of the external 
auditors and the effectiveness of the  
external audit process.

 – The implementation of a policy on the 

supply of non-audit services to ensure that 
the provision of non-audit services by the 
external auditors does not impair their 
independence and objectivity. 

COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
The Committee reviews reports from the external auditors at each quarterly 
Committee meeting including the annual audit plan and an ongoing assessment of the 
effective performance of the audit compared to the plan. The Committee Chairman 
conducts informal meetings with the auditors and the CFO prior to, during, and after 
the quarterly results. The Committee meets in executive session with the external 
auditors without management present to discuss any particular concerns or sensitivities 
about the audit process, and with management without the external auditors present 
to obtain feedback on the audit process. During 2016, an assessment of the effectiveness 
of the external audit process was led by the Committee Chairman with input from the 
Company’s senior management and the external auditors. The review enabled the 
Audit Committee to determine that the external audit process was effective and to 
note some minor development areas for future audits.

The Committee has approved and adopted a non-audit services policy that is reviewed 
on an annual basis and was last updated in October 2016. The policy, which stipulates 
rules around approvals required for various types of non-audit services, can be found 
on the Company’s website. During 2016, EY provided non-audit services in relation  
to UK taxation. Fees for non-audit services provided in 2016 totalled $0.1 million 
representing 3.7 per cent of total fees paid to EY. The Committee gave careful 
consideration to the nature of the non-audit services provided and the level of  
fees charged, and has determined that they would not affect the independence  
and objectivity of EY as auditors.

 – Makes a recommendation to the Board, to 
be put to shareholders for approval at the 
AGM, in relation to the appointment, 
re-appointment and removal of the 
Company’s external auditors.

It was disclosed in the Annual Report and Accounts 2015 that the contract for the 
provision of external audit services commencing in the financial year 2017 would be 
put out to tender during 2016 and a recommendation would be made to shareholders 
at the 2017 AGM. Details of the external audit tender process and the results thereof 
are disclosed on page 54.

52 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

INTERNAL AUDIT

COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITY
Monitors and reviews the effectiveness of the 
Group’s Internal Audit function in the context 
of the Group’s overall risk management system.

COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
The Group’s Internal Audit function reports directly to the Committee. Each year  
the Head of Internal Audit presents an audit plan to the Committee for consideration 
and approval. The highest rated Lancashire and Kinesis risks are considered for audit 
annually, moderate risks every two years and the lowest risks every three years. The 
highest rated Cathedral risks are considered for audit biannually, moderate risks every 
three years and the lowest risks every four years. The findings of each internal audit  
are reported to the Committee at the quarterly meetings. The Committee has a 
responsibility to ensure the timely implementation of agreed management actions  
and to review the status of these at its meetings. The Committee meets in executive 
session with the Head of Internal Audit on at least an annual basis.

During 2016, the Committee reviewed and approved an updated Internal  
Audit Charter. This can be viewed on the Company’s website. An assessment of the 
effectiveness of the Internal Audit function was conducted by the CRO, with a report 
issued to the Committee. The Committee discussed the report and its findings with  
the CRO and the Head of Internal Audit and noted that no significant issues were 
raised. The Committee concluded that the Internal Audit function is operating 
effectively and efficiently in the context of the Group’s overall risk management 
system, and is adequately resourced.

INTERNAL CONTROLS AND RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITY
Reviews the adequacy and effectiveness  
of the Group’s internal financial controls  
and internal control and risk management  
systems (including financial, operational  
and compliance controls).

COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
The Board has ultimate responsibility for maintaining a robust framework of internal 
controls and risk management and for overseeing and ensuring the effectiveness of  
the Group’s risk management and internal control systems, and has delegated the 
monitoring and review of this framework to the Committee. The system of internal 
control is designed to manage rather than eliminate the risk of failure to achieve 
business objectives, and can only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance 
against material misstatement or loss. The Committee receives an annual paper 
detailing the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls, which is reviewed  
and discussed by the Committee. This paper covers all material controls including 
financial, operating and compliance controls. In 2016, the Committee was satisfied 
that the Company’s internal control framework was operating effectively.

Reviews for adequacy and security the Group’s 
‘whistleblowing’ arrangements, procedures  
for detecting fraud and systems and controls 
for the prevention of bribery and money  
laundering.

During 2016, the Committee reviewed and recommended the adoption by the Board 
of updated policies and procedures for anti-money laundering, bribery and financial 
crime, conflicts of interest and whistleblowing. The Committee regularly reviews the 
Company’s procedures for detecting fraud. There were no instances of whistleblower 
reporting or financial crime recorded during the year.

The Committee also keeps under review the adequacy and effectiveness of the 
Company’s legal and compliance function.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

53

GOVERNANCE 
COMMITTEE REPORTS CONTINUED

EXTERNAL AUDIT TENDER PROCESS
It was disclosed to shareholders in the Annual Report and 
Accounts 2015 that a competitive external audit tender process 
would be undertaken during 2016. EY have been the Group’s 
external auditors since the Group’s formation in 2005 and the 
provision of external audit services has not been subject to a 
tender since then. Angus Millar has been the lead audit partner 
since 2012.

EY was amongst the firms that were invited to participate in  
the external audit tender process, which was as follows:

•  The Audit Committee approved a detailed project plan 

and approach.

•  After an initial high level consideration of seven firms,  

including three mid-tier organisations, the process was narrowed 
down to three firms. It was considered that none of the mid-tier 
firms had the breadth of insurance expertise necessary across 
the UK and Bermuda to be considered further.

•  A formal invitation to tender letter and request for information 

questionnaire (‘RIQ’) was sent to the three firms.

•  Following meetings with management and the Chairman of the 
Audit Committee and scoring of the RIQ responses, the Audit 
Committee agreed to reduce the number of firms to two for the 
final part of the process. These firms were issued with a request 
for proposal (‘RFP’).

•  Both firms had meetings with members of the Audit Committee 
and various members of the Group’s management and were 
scored across a number of requirements.

•  Responses to the RFPs were received from the tendering firms, 

and also scored.

•  Presentations were made by the tendering firms to the selection 

panel, which included members of the Audit Committee.

•  Following the presentations and a review of the firms’ scores a 
decision was made by the Audit Committee to recommend to 
the Board the appointment of KPMG as external auditors.
•  The Board of Directors discussed the recommendation and 
approved the proposal to recommend the appointment of 
KPMG by shareholders at the 2017 AGM.

2016 AREAS FOR FOCUSED INQUIRIES
In addition to the regular cycle of activities, the Audit Committee 
also initiated a number of focused inquiries into specific areas 
during the year. A specialist from the Group senior management 
team was invited to present a topic to the Committee to increase 
the Committee’s understanding and facilitate discussion and 
challenge within specific areas. During 2016 areas covered were:

•  Review of the Group’s IT architecture and key risks 

and controls.

•  The application of judgements within the loss reserving process.
•  A review of manual intervention in finance processes.

SIGNIFICANT AREAS OF JUDGEMENT OR ESTIMATION
LOSS RESERVES AND EXPENSES
As detailed on pages 143 to 145 of the consolidated  
financial statements, the estimation of ultimate loss reserves  
is a complex actuarial process that incorporates a significant 
amount of judgement. The Committee considers the adequacy 
of the Group’s loss reserves at each Audit Committee meeting, 
for which purpose it receives quarterly reports from the 
Group’s Reserving Actuary. EY conduct a high level review  
of the Group’s loss reserves as part of their first and third 
quarter review procedures. The Reserving Actuary, 
independent actuary and EY present a comparison of 
Lancashire’s reserves to their own best estimates at the second 
and fourth quarter Audit Committee meetings. During 2016, 
the Committee focused its discussions around the Group’s  
loss reserves on: the range of reasonable actuarial estimates 
and the divergence of the Group’s estimates to the external 
actuarial estimates; current and prior year loss development 
including ‘back-testing’ of the Group’s prior year reserves;  
and reserving for each insurance operating subsidiary.  
Having reviewed and challenged these areas, the Committee 
concurred with management’s valuation of the Group’s loss 
reserves and the relevant disclosures around loss reserving  
in the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

INTANGIBLE ASSET VALUATION
The Company has two indefinite life intangible assets  
following the acquisition of Cathedral – goodwill and syndicate 
participation rights. Intangible assets with indefinite useful 
lives are subject to an impairment review at least annually or 
sooner if there is an indication of impairment. Some of the  
key inputs in the impairment review are based on management 
judgement and/or estimation (see page 97 of the consolidated 
financial statements for further details). These inputs are 
reviewed by the Audit Committee annually and are considered 
reasonable. The Audit Committee also considers the Company’s 
internal stress tests and what stress scenarios would have to 
occur to indicate an impairment of its intangible assets. As  
a result of these considerations the Audit Committee agreed 
with management and EY that there was no impairment of  
the Company’s intangible assets.

PRIORITIES FOR 2017
The Committee’s key priorities for 2017 are:

•  To achieve a smooth transition of external auditors and  
a constructive and productive relationship with KPMG  
in that role.

•  To ensure the continued effectiveness of the Group’s control 
environment and the integrity of external financial reporting.

•  To monitor the preparation by the Group for the 

implementation of IFRS 17 following confirmation  
by the IASB of the 1 January 2021 effective date.

54 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

NOMINATION AND 
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
COMMITTEE

PETER CLARKE
Chairman of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee

The focus of the Committee during 2016 
has been on succession planning and 
consideration of the balance of skills, 
experience, independence and knowledge 
on the Board and talent management 
across the business.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
A majority of the members of the Nomination and Corporate Governance 
Committee are independent Non-Executive Directors. The Committee 
Chairman is Peter Clarke, who is the Chairman of the Board.

Peter Clarke1 (Chairman)
Michael Dawson2
Samantha Hoe-Richardson
Tom Milligan3
Martin Thomas1
Emma Duncan3

Meetings attended
2/2
0/0
4/4
2/2
2/2
2/2

(1)  Martin Thomas retired as a member of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee as of his  

retirement from the Board on 4 May 2016. Peter Clarke succeeded Martin Thomas as Chairman of the Committee.
(2)  Michael Dawson was appointed as a member of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee with effect 

from 3 November 2016.

(3) Emma Duncan retired as a member of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee with effect from 

8 July 2016. Tom Milligan succeeded Emma Duncan as a member of the Committee.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMITTEE
•  Reviews the structure, size and composition (including the 
skills, knowledge, experience and diversity) of the Board.

•  Considers succession planning for Directors and other 

senior executives.

•  Nominates candidates to fill Board vacancies.
•  Makes recommendations to the Board concerning  

Non-Executive Director independence, membership of 
Committees, suitable candidates for the role of Senior 
Independent Director and the re-election of Directors 
by shareholders.

•  Reviews the Company’s corporate governance arrangements 

and compliance with the Code.

•  Makes recommendations to the Board concerning the 

charitable and corporate social responsibility activities of  
the Company and donations to the Lancashire Foundation.

HOW THE COMMITTEE DISCHARGED ITS RESPONSIBILITIES 
DURING 2016
BOARD COMPOSITION AND APPOINTMENT OF  
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
The Committee reviewed the composition of the Board to 
ensure that the balance of skills, experience, independence, 
knowledge and diversity continued to be appropriate for  
the Group’s business to meet its strategic objectives. The 
Committee also considered whether any additional skills  
and experience were needed, to complement those already  
on the Board.

In this regard, the Eliot Partnership, a global insurance 
executive search firm with no other connection to the Group, 
were engaged. They identified a number of potential candidates. 
The Committee recommended the appointments of Robert 
Lusardi and Michael Dawson as Non-Executive Directors.

The Committee recommended to the Board the various 
changes to the composition of the Board Committees which 
were made during the year.

SUCCESSION PLANNING
The Committee reviewed the Company’s succession plan  
for Executive Directors and other senior executives, taking  
into account the Company’s risk environment and strategic 
objectives, as well as the anticipated demands of the business. 
A particular area of focus during 2016 was the continued 
buildout of the Group’s talent management and development 
programme to ensure it is aligned with the overarching 
business strategy.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

55

GOVERNANCE 
COMMITTEE REPORTS CONTINUED

APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS TO SUBSIDIARY BOARDS AND 
SENIOR EXECUTIVE POSITIONS
The Committee monitored the composition of subsidiary 
Boards during 2016, reviewing in particular the appointments 
of Simon Fraser, Lance Gibbins and Nicholas Davenport as 
Non-Executive Directors of CUL, the appointment of Beverley 
Todd as the Non-Executive Director and Chair of LICL,  
and the appointments of Adrian Colosso and Samantha 
Hoe-Richardson as Non-Executive Directors of LUK. The 
Committee also reviewed the appointments of Heather 
McKinlay to the role of CUL CFO, Marion Madden as interim 
Managing Director of CUL and Andrew McKee, who will be 
joining the Group as the permanent CUL CEO in June 2017.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Committee keeps under review the Company’s corporate 
governance, particularly compliance with the Code, and  
is responsible for making recommendations to the Board 
concerning the process for conducting and facilitating the 
annual performance evaluation of the Board, its Committees 
and the individual Directors – see page 48.

During 2016, the Committee recommended the approval by 
the Board of a revised Group Share Dealing Code and new 
Policy following the implementation of the Market Abuse 
Regulation in July 2016.

The Committee also recommended the approval by the Board 
of an updated protocol for the division of responsibilities and 
roles of the Chairman and Group CEO and the responsibilities 
and reporting lines of the CEOs of Group subsidiaries.

The Committee recommended approval by the Board of an 
updated statement on the representation of women on the 
Board, on executive committees and in senior management. 
This is published on the Company’s website. In the context of 
Lord Davies’ reports, the Committee recognises the benefits 
that a broad diversity of skills, experience and gender, amongst 
other factors, brings to enhance Board performance, but 
considers that quotas are not the best option for 
achieving diversity.

The Committee considered statistics relevant to the gender 
composition of the Board, Group management excluding 
Non-Executive Directors, and overall Group employees.  
These statistics are shown opposite.

The Committee also reviewed and approved the Chairman’s 
statement on Slavery and Human Trafficking which is posted 
on the Company’s website.

THE LANCASHIRE FOUNDATION
The Committee is responsible for monitoring and making 
recommendations to the Board in relation to the Company’s 
charitable giving policy and the operation of, and reporting 
requirements for, the Lancashire Foundation. The Committee 
held a meeting with the Trustees of the Lancashire Foundation 
during the autumn of 2016 to receive a report on its charitable 
activities and to discuss the ways in which the Foundation 
engages with employees throughout the Group.

PRIORITIES FOR 2017
The Committee’s key priorities for 2017 are:

•  To continue to review succession planning for Directors  
and senior executives and to support management in the 
development of the talent pipeline.

•  To review the outcomes of the 2016 annual performance 

evaluation of the Committees’ performance, the 
composition of the Board, and agree and monitor  
any necessary actions.

•  To continue its focus on corporate governance requirements, 
LHL BOARD MEMBERS
regulatory developments and compliance with the Code.

LHL BOARD MEMBERS

GROUP MANAGEMENT EXCLUDING 
GROUP MANAGEMENT EXCLUDING  
LHL NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
LHL NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

Male
Female

OVERALL GROUP EMPLOYEES

Male
Female

OVERALL GROUP EMPLOYEES

 Male: 6 (75%)
 Female: 2 (25%)
 Total: 8

 Male: 12 (71%)
 Female: 5 (29%)
 Total: 17

 Male: 120 (61%)
 Female: 78 (39%)
 Total: 198

56 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Male
Female

INVESTMENT 
COMMITTEE

PETER CLARKE
Chairman of the Investment Committee

Our investment philosophy is to  
preserve capital and to ensure liquidity  
in our investments to complement our 
underwriting operations and service  
the needs of our clients.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
The Investment Committee comprises two independent Non-Executive 
Directors, the Chairman of the Board, one Executive Director (the CFO) 
and the Group Head of Investments and Treasury (who is not a Director).

Peter Clarke (Chairman)
Robert Lusardi1
Tom Milligan
Denise O’Donoghue
Elaine Whelan
Emma Duncan2

Meetings attended
4/4
2/2
4/4
4/4
4/4
2/2

(1)  Robert Lusardi was appointed as a member of the Investment Committee with effect from 8 July 2016.
(2)  Emma Duncan retired as a member of the Investment Committee with effect from 8 July 2016.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMITTEE
•  Recommends investment strategies, guidelines and policies 
to the Board of the Company and other members of the 
Group to approve annually.

•  Recommends and sets risk asset definitions and risk 

tolerance levels.

•  Recommends to the relevant Boards the appointment of 
investment managers to manage the Group’s investments.
•  Monitors the performance of investment strategies within 

the risk framework.

•  Establishes and monitors compliance with investment 

operating guidelines relating to the custody of investments 
and the related internal controls.

HOW THE COMMITTEE DISCHARGED ITS RESPONSIBILITIES 
DURING 2016
The Committee regularly discussed and kept under review 
macro-economic and global political developments during  
the year, in particular the effects of the UK Brexit vote and  
the U.S. election on investment strategy and performance.  
The Committee also considered regular reports on the 
performance of the Group’s investment portfolios, including 
asset allocation and compliance with pre-defined guidelines 
and tolerances; and recommended amendments to portfolio 
investment guidelines to the Board.

During the second quarter of 2016, the Committee undertook 
a strategic asset allocation analysis and recommended the 
2016/2017 investment strategy to the Board. During the fourth 
quarter of 2016, the Committee approved the appointment of 
a new hedge fund adviser.

PRIORITIES FOR 2017
The Committee’s key priorities for 2017 are:

•  To maintain a continued focus on the preservation of 

capital, the maintenance of liquidity and the mitigation  
of interest rate risk.

•  The continued management of the risk-on/risk-off balance 

in the portfolio in anticipation of gradually increasing 
interest rates and inflationary practices in the U.S., while 
also protecting the portfolio in risk-off environments.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

57

GOVERNANCE 
COMMITTEE REPORTS CONTINUED

UNDERWRITING AND 
UNDERWRITING RISK 
COMMITTEE

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMITTEE
•  Formulates Group underwriting strategy.
•  Oversees the development of, and adherence to, 

underwriting guidelines by operating company CUOs.

•  Reviews underwriting performance.
•  Reviews significant changes in underwriting rules 

and policies.

•  Establishes, reviews and maintains strict underwriting 

criteria and limits.

•  Monitors underwriting risk and its consistency with the 

Group’s risk profile and risk appetite.

HOW THE COMMITTEE DISCHARGED ITS RESPONSIBILITIES 
DURING 2016
Underwriting risk is the key risk faced by the Group, and  
the Committee is actively engaged in the development of 
strategy and underwriting risk tolerances, which are approved 
by the Board. The Committee also monitors underwriting 
performance on a quarterly basis. Lancashire continues to 
prioritise good risk selection first and foremost, and the 
Committee has been supportive of management’s strategic 
priority of servicing the insurance requirements of a core 
group of existing clients and their brokers. During 2016  
the Group achieved greater efficiencies in the structuring  
and pricing of outwards reinsurance protections, thereby 
helping to effectively manage peak risk exposures across  
the business. The Committee monitored the restructuring  
of the underwriting teams within Cathedral, including the 
appointments of the Active Underwriters of Syndicates 2010 
and 3010 and the recruitment of new underwriters within 
Cathedral during the year. The Committee also received 
regular reports on the progress made in the development  
of the Kinesis platform during 2016. The Committee also 
received quarterly reports of significant claims and reserve  
developments.

During 2016, the Committee meetings were open to 
attendance by all the Board members and provided a useful 
forum for the discussion of underwriting performance, risk 
tolerances and strategic initiatives. The Committee and Board 
place great importance on the management of the Company’s 
capital so as to match capital to the underwriting requirements 
of the business.

A more detailed analysis of the Group’s underwriting 
performance appears in the Business review section of this 
Annual Report and Accounts on pages 24 to 30.

PRIORITIES FOR 2017
The Committee’s key priorities for 2017 are:

•  To continue to monitor the development of a forward-

looking and disciplined underwriting strategy appropriate 
for the Group’s three underwriting platforms, within a 
framework of appropriate risk tolerances.

•  To work actively with management in the identification, 

analysis and consideration of such new underwriters and/or 
lines of business as may complement or enhance existing 
underwriting strategy.

ALEX MALONEY
Chairman of the Underwriting and Underwriting Risk Committee

The Committee provides a forum for 
discussing the state of the insurance and 
reinsurance sectors in which the Group 
operates, and determining and monitoring 
the Group’s risk tolerances through the 
insurance cycle.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
During 2016 the Underwriting and Underwriting Risk Committee 
comprised one Executive Director (the Group CEO) and two Non-
Executive Directors together with the Group CUO, the CUO of LICL,  
the CUO and Reinsurance Manager of LUK, the Active Underwriters  
for Syndicates 2010 and 3010, and the Head of Capital Modeling  
(who are not Directors).

Alex Maloney (Chairman)
Michael Dawson1
Paul Gregory2
Hayley Johnston
Tom Milligan
Sylvain Perrier
Ben Readdy
John Spence3
Richard Williams4

Meetings attended
4/4
0/0
3/4
4/4
4/4
4/4
4/4
1/1
2/3

(1)  Michael Dawson was appointed as a member of the Underwriting and Underwriting Risk Committee with effect 

from 3 November 2016.

(2)  Paul Gregory was unable to attend the July 2016 Committee meeting due to planned medical leave of absence.
(3) John Spence was appointed as a member of the Underwriting and Underwriting Risk Committee with effect from 

1 November 2016.

(4) Richard Williams was appointed as a member of the Underwriting and Underwriting Risk Committee with effect 

from 28 April 2016.

58 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

REMUNERATION
COMMITTEE

SIMON FRASER
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

The Committee seeks to implement a 
Remuneration Policy which ensures that 
financial rewards are appropriately linked  
to performance, and that there is a balance 
which avoids the incentivisation of excessive 
risk taking or a culture of short-termism.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
The Remuneration Committee comprises three independent  
Non-Executive Directors and the Chairman of the Board.

Simon Fraser (Chairman)
Peter Clarke
Michael Dawson1
Robert Lusardi2
Emma Duncan3
Samantha Hoe-Richardson1

Meetings attended
4/4
4/4
0/0
2/2
2/2
2/2

(1)  Samantha Hoe-Richardson was appointed as a member of the Remuneration Committee on an interim basis with 
effect from 4 May 2016. Michael Dawson succeeded Samantha Hoe-Richardson as a member of the Committee 
with effect from 3 November 2016.

(2)  Robert Lusardi was appointed as a member of the Remuneration Committee with effect from 8 July 2016.
(3) Emma Duncan retired as a member of the Remuneration Committee with effect from 8 July 2016.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMITTEE
•  Sets the remuneration policy for, and determines the  

total individual remuneration packages, including pension 
arrangements, of the Company’s Chairman, the Executive 
Directors, Company Secretary and other designated senior 
executives, to deliver long-term benefits to the Group.
•  Agrees personal objectives for each Executive Director  
and the related performance and pay-out metrics for  
the performance element of the annual bonus.

•  Determines each year whether awards will be made under 
the Group’s restricted share scheme and, if so, the overall 
amount of such awards, the individual awards to Executive 
Directors and other designated senior executives, and the 
performance targets to be used.

•  Ensures that contractual terms on termination or 

retirement, and any payments made, are fair to the 
individual and the Company.

•  Oversees any major changes in employee benefit structures 

throughout the Group.

HOW THE COMMITTEE DISCHARGED ITS RESPONSIBILITIES 
DURING 2016
During 2016, the Committee reviewed the Group incentive 
packages to ensure that remuneration was structured 
appropriately to promote the long-term success of the 
Company. The Committee also reviewed the RSS structure  
for Executive Directors to ensure that the performance  
metrics continue to align the interests of the Company with  
its investors and management. The Committee considered  
the salary and bonus awards for 2016 for Executive Directors 
and other designated senior executives. The Committee also 
approved the grant of awards under the Company’s RSS.

The Committee reviewed Executive Directors’ shareholdings 
in the context of the Company’s share ownership guidelines 
for senior/key executives and modified the guidelines to 
introduce a minimum qualifying holding for all Executive 
Directors of not less than 200 per cent of salary, thereby 
further increasing the alignment with shareholders.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

59

GOVERNANCE 
COMMITTEE REPORTS CONTINUED

In accordance with UK company best practices the Committee 
also reviewed the policy for Executive Directors’ remuneration 
which has a three-year life, with a view to making a policy 
recommendation to shareholders at the 2017 AGM. The 
Committee considers the existing policy (last approved  
in 2014) fit for purpose but has proposed certain minor 
amendments to the policy to improve its clarity and operation. 
The Committee also reviewed the terms of the ten-year RSS 
rules governing the award of long-term incentives which are 
due for renewal at the 2017 AGM. No material amendments  
to the terms of the RSS rules are proposed, although certain 
clarificatory changes are proposed including the introduction 
of more formal provisions for the use of holding periods for 
specified awards. The Committee also initiated a consultation 
exercise prior to the year end including significant shareholders 
and certain of the proxy advisory services to receive feedback 
specifically in relation to the Group’s policy for Executive 
Director remuneration, the renewal of the RSS rules and the 
metrics to be used for the operation of Executive Director 
remuneration during 2017. Further details regarding the 
policy for Executive Director remuneration and the RSS rules 
are given in the Directors’ Remuneration Report and the 
Annual Report on Remuneration, for which the Committee  
is responsible, and which can be found on pages 61 to 79.

During 2016, the Committee undertook a review of, and 
recommended changes to, the companies comprising the 
Company’s peer group for comparator purposes in light of 
recent M&A activity. A list of peer companies is on page 76.

PRIORITIES FOR 2017
The Committee’s key priorities for 2017 are:

•  To review the ongoing appropriateness and relevance of the 

Group’s remuneration structures.

•  To review arrangements for remuneration across the wider 
Group with a view to further aligning the processes for 
appraisal, objective setting and remuneration across the 
Lloyd’s and non-Lloyd’s platforms.

60 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT 

ANNUAL STATEMENT 
Dear Shareholder, 

I am pleased to present the 2016 Directors’ Remuneration Report to 
shareholders.  

Lancashire’s Directors’ Remuneration Policy was first put to 
shareholders and approved at the 2014 AGM. The Policy has served 
us well and, in accordance with the practice for UK companies, we 
will be submitting our Directors’ Remuneration Policy for reapproval 
at the 2017 AGM. Proposed changes are few in number and largely 
ensure greater clarity and address administrative details. No material 
changes are proposed to the policy. A copy of the policy proposed 
for approval at the 2017 AGM is set out on pages 63 to 68. 

REMUNERATION AND STRATEGY 
The Group’s goal continues to be to reward its employees fairly and 
responsibly by providing an appropriate balance between fixed and 
variable remuneration, linked to the achievement of suitably 
challenging Group and individual performance measures.  

There is a strong link between the Remuneration Policy and the 
business strategy. As highlighted at the front of this Annual Report 
and Accounts, our strategy focuses on the effective operation of the 
business necessary to maximise long-term RoE and the delivery of 
superior total shareholder returns on a risk-adjusted basis over the 
course of the insurance cycle. Our Remuneration Policy and the  
way it is implemented are closely aligned to this strategy. 

Against this background the Board has debated at length during  
this last year the issues raised by the global macro-economic 
environment, the current trend towards lower investment returns 
generally and the particular challenges to the insurance industry  
as a whole. The Board and management believe that the insurance 
industry is cyclical in its fundamental characteristics. Therefore,  
at the current low point in the insurance cycle the Group must 
prioritise achieving acceptable, but more modest, returns. This 
means moderating overall risk levels through underwriting discipline 
and prudent reinsurance planning, whilst ensuring that the business 
continues to service the needs of its core clients and brokers. The 
Board considers that such measures are important to ensure the 
continuing relevance of the business to its clients, shareholders and 
other stakeholders, and to position the business well for the time 
when market conditions turn.  

PROPOSAL TO RENEW THE RESTRICTED SHARE SCHEME AT  
THE 2017 AGM 
Lancashire’s long-term incentive scheme, the RSS, is due to expire  
in 2018 and therefore shareholder approval will be sought for a 
replacement scheme at the 2017 AGM. The replacement RSS rules 
will have substantially the same terms as the existing scheme. There 
are some minor changes to bring the new rules more in line with 
current best practice including the extension of the clawback period 
for awards to three years post vesting; and a change to determine  
the value of shares subject to an award from the beginning of the 
financial year to a period of five trading days immediately prior to 
the date of such award. 

Lancashire will continue the practice of paying dividend equivalents 
on vested RSS awards (structured as nil cost options) up until the 
date of exercise of awards. The Company is very active in its capital 
management – often paying very significant dividends which can  
lead to a reduction in the share price.  

PERFORMANCE OUTCOME FOR 2016 
The Group has delivered very solid results in a market which 
remained challenging during 2016 (see the performance review  
of this report on pages 72 to 75).  

Against a continuing background of difficult market conditions  
there was a decrease in total remuneration of 11.1 per cent for the 
CEO and 13.5 per cent for the CFO between 2015 and 2016 (see  
the comparison table for single figure remuneration on page 71). 
This movement is consistent with an RoE of 13.5 per cent for 2016 
compared to 10.9 per cent for 2015 (13.5 per cent on a warrant 
adjusted basis) and a total shareholder return of 2.4 per cent for the 
year compared to 25.9 per cent for 2015, which affected vesting levels 
on the 2014 RSS awards (see below and page 74 for further details). 

Executive Directors’ annual bonus performance targets set at  
the beginning of 2016 for personal and financial performance  
were stretching, and given the Company’s 2016 performance were 
achieved at above target level (and at 63 per cent of maximum bonus 
for the CEO and the CFO), subject to final confirmation of peer 
group performance data. The potential percentage of maximum 
bonus for both the CEO and CFO could rise to 78 per cent should 
the Company performance be ranked at or above the upper quartile 
against peers. 

In relation to long-term incentives, the 2014 Performance RSS 
awards were 75 per cent based on absolute RoE targets and 25 per 
cent on relative TSR against specified peer group companies over 
the three-year period to 31 December 2016. Our TSR performance 
(in U.S. dollars) over this period ranked the Company below the 
median of the designated peer group of 11 companies, resulting in  
0 per cent vesting for the TSR component.  

Our average RoE performance, adjusted for warrants, over this three-
year performance period was 13.9 per cent against a threshold target 
of the 13-week Treasury bill rate plus 6 per cent and a maximum pay-
out of the 13-week Treasury bill rate plus 15 per cent, resulting in 
89.8 per cent of the RoE component of the 2014 Performance RSS 
awards vesting. Overall, the 2014 Performance RSS awards vested at 
67.4 per cent. This compared to the overall 75 per cent vesting of the 
2013 Performance RSS awards due to 100 per cent vesting of the RoE 
portion of those awards and 0 per cent vesting of the TSR portion of 
the awards, which we reported last year.  

G
G
O
O
V
V
E
E
R
R
N
N
A
A
N
N
C
C
E
E

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

61 
61

GOVERNANCE 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

The total remuneration received by our current Executive Directors 
in 2016 was lower than that received in 2015 (see page 71 for the 
comparison data). In the current difficult underwriting environment 
total remuneration for the Executive Directors is lower than in many 
previous years, as demonstrated by the chart of Total Remuneration 
History for the CEO on page 78. The Committee believes in setting 
challenging performance criteria and having a significant proportion 
of the overall package linked to Company performance. However, 
the Committee also continues to recognise the need to ensure that 
Executive Directors are appropriately remunerated and incentivised 
even in the more challenging phases of the insurance cycle, as at 
present.  

It is also important that the Committee and the Board ensure that 
Executive Director compensation is structured in such a way to 
discourage excessive risk to the business.  

The like-for-like employee costs for the Group were $72.1 million in 
2016 compared with $80.1 million in 2015 (see page 78 for further 
detail). A majority of our employment costs are in Sterling and this 
reduction is driven principally by the fall in value of Sterling against 
the U.S. dollar. 

Overall, in light of the annual and three-year performance delivered, 
the Committee is satisfied that there has been a robust link between 
performance and reward for Executive Directors. 

APPLICATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY FOR 2017 
As mentioned above, the Remuneration Committee has reviewed  
the policy approved by shareholders and believes it remains fit for 
purpose, subject to certain minor changes. The policy changes 
include the introduction of a two-year holding period on long-term 
incentive awards and a strengthening of share ownership guidelines 
whereby a 200 per cent of salary guideline will apply to all Executive 
Directors and not just the CEO. Both these changes provide greater 
long-term alignment with our shareholder base. 

After careful deliberation and consultation with our major 
shareholders and the major shareholder advisory groups, the Board 
has decided to modify the way in which the Company implements 
the Remuneration Policy for 2017. In setting annual bonus targets 
the Board has decided to create a more formal linkage between 
performance targets and the investment return environment. In 
relation to longer-term RSS awards the Board has set targets by 
reference to appropriate expectations for growth in fully converted 
book value per share plus dividends, an important metric for our 
shareholders and within the investment community for property and 
casualty companies. Relative total shareholder return will continue  
to account for 25 per cent of the award. Further details are set out  
on pages 69 to 71 of this report.  

The final section of this report is the Annual Report on 
Remuneration which provides detailed disclosure on how the policy 
will be implemented for 2017 and how Directors have been paid in 
relation to 2016.  

The disclosures provide our shareholders with the information 
necessary to form a judgement as to the link between Company 
performance and how the Executive Directors are paid. This Annual 
Statement together with the Annual Report on Remuneration will be 
subject to an advisory vote and I hope that you will be able to support 
the resolution at the forthcoming AGM. Additionally, the proposed 
new Remuneration Policy for 2017–2020 and the revised RSS rules 
will both be put forward at the 2017 AGM for a binding vote. The 
Committee is committed to maintaining an open and constructive 
dialogue with our shareholders on remuneration matters and  
I welcome any feedback you may have.  

Simon Fraser 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION POLICY SECTION 

As a company incorporated in Bermuda, Lancashire is not bound  

•  there is a blend of short-term and long-term performance metrics 

with an appropriate mix of performance conditions, meaning that 

by UK law or regulation in the area of Directors’ remuneration  

there is no undue focus on any one particular metric; 

to the same extent that it applies to UK incorporated companies. 

However, by virtue of the Company’s premium listing on the  

LSE, and for the purposes of explaining its compliance against  

the requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code, the  

Board is committed to providing full information on Directors’ 

remuneration to shareholders. 

The Company’s first Remuneration Policy was approved by 

shareholders at the 2014 AGM. That policy had a three-year life and 

will expire at the 2017 AGM.  

During the year, the Committee completed a review of executive 

remuneration which sought to ensure continued alignment with  

•  there is a high level of share ownership amongst Executive 

Directors, meaning that there is a strong focus on sustainable  

long-term shareholder value; and 

•  the Company has the power to claw back bonuses (including the 

deferred element of the annual bonus) and long-term incentive 

payments made to Executive Directors in the event of material 

misstatements in the Group’s consolidated financial statements, 

errors in the calculation of any performance condition, or the 

Executive Director ceasing to be a Director and/or employee  

due to gross misconduct. 

the Company’s strategy and take account of good and developing 

INTO ACCOUNT 

practice. The revised Remuneration Policy for the Company’s 

Directors is set out in this report and will be put forward for 

The Committee Chairman and, where appropriate, the Company 

Chairman, consult with major investors and representative bodies  

shareholder approval at the AGM on 3 May 2017. If the policy is 

on any significant remuneration proposal relating to Executive 

approved, it will take effect immediately following the 2017 AGM  

Directors. Views of shareholders at the AGM, and feedback  

and it is intended to apply for a period of three years from the 2017 

received at other times, will be considered by the Committee. 

HOW THE VIEWS OF SHAREHOLDERS ARE TAKEN  

AGM. The revised Remuneration Policy contains details of the 

Company’s policy to govern future payments that will be made to 

HOW THE VIEWS OF EMPLOYEES ARE TAKEN  

Directors. If approved, all remuneration and loss of office payments 

INTO ACCOUNT 

made after 3 May 2017 will only be made if they are consistent with 

The Remuneration Committee takes into account levels of  

the approved Remuneration Policy. Full details of how the Company 

pay elsewhere in the Group when determining the pay levels for 

will implement the revised Remuneration Policy in 2017 is provided 

Executive Directors. The proposed Remuneration Policy for all staff 

in the Annual Report on Remuneration section starting on page 69. 

is, in principle, broadly the same as that for Executive Directors in 

The Annual Report on Remuneration also details the remuneration 

paid to Directors in respect of the 2016 financial year in accordance 

with the policy approved at the 2014 AGM. 

that any of the Group’s employees may be offered similarly structured 

packages, with participation in annual bonus and long-term incentive 

plans, although award types (restricted cash, restricted stock or 

performance shares) and size may vary between different categories  

The revised Remuneration Policy has been developed taking  

of staff. For Executive Directors, with higher remuneration levels,  

into account the principles of the Code and the views of our  

a higher proportion of the compensation package is subject to 

major shareholders.  

GOVERNANCE AND APPROACH 

The Company’s proposed Remuneration Policy is geared  

towards providing a level of remuneration which attracts, retains  

and motivates Executive Directors of the highest calibre to further 

the Company’s interests and to optimise long-term shareholder  

performance pay, share-based remuneration and deferral. This 

ensures that there is a strong link between remuneration, Company 

performance and the interests of shareholders. 

Reflecting good practice in this area, Executive Directors’ pension 

provision is no more generous than the pension contributions made 

to employees in the Group (in percentage of salary terms). 

value creation, within appropriate risk parameters. The proposed 

The Company does not consult with employees on Executive 

Remuneration Policy also seeks to ensure that Executive Directors 

Directors’ remuneration. However, as noted above, the Committee  

are provided with appropriate incentives to drive individual 

is made aware of pay structures across the wider Group when setting 

performance and to reward them fairly for their contribution  

the Remuneration Policy for Executive Directors.  

to the successful performance of the Company. 

The Remuneration Committee and the Board have considered 

whether any element of the proposed Remuneration Policy  

could conceivably encourage Executive Directors to take 

inappropriate risks and have concluded that this is not the  

case, given the following: 

•  there is an appropriate balance between fixed and variable  

pay, and therefore Executive Directors are not required  

to earn performance-related pay to meet their day-to-day  

living expenses; 

CHANGES MADE TO THE POLICY  

Following the review of the remuneration arrangements for 

Executive Directors, some changes were introduced to the policy to 

reflect changes in best practice and to provide a limited amount of 

additional flexibility.  

As mentioned above, the most material policy changes include the 

introduction of a two-year holding period on long-term incentive 

awards and a strengthening of share ownership guidelines. 

62 
62 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

63 

 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

The total remuneration received by our current Executive Directors 

APPLICATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY FOR 2017 

in 2016 was lower than that received in 2015 (see page 71 for the 

As mentioned above, the Remuneration Committee has reviewed  

comparison data). In the current difficult underwriting environment 

the policy approved by shareholders and believes it remains fit for 

total remuneration for the Executive Directors is lower than in many 

purpose, subject to certain minor changes. The policy changes 

previous years, as demonstrated by the chart of Total Remuneration 

include the introduction of a two-year holding period on long-term 

History for the CEO on page 78. The Committee believes in setting 

incentive awards and a strengthening of share ownership guidelines 

challenging performance criteria and having a significant proportion 

whereby a 200 per cent of salary guideline will apply to all Executive 

of the overall package linked to Company performance. However, 

Directors and not just the CEO. Both these changes provide greater 

the Committee also continues to recognise the need to ensure that 

long-term alignment with our shareholder base. 

Executive Directors are appropriately remunerated and incentivised 

even in the more challenging phases of the insurance cycle, as at 

present.  

After careful deliberation and consultation with our major 

shareholders and the major shareholder advisory groups, the Board 

has decided to modify the way in which the Company implements 

It is also important that the Committee and the Board ensure that 

the Remuneration Policy for 2017. In setting annual bonus targets 

Executive Director compensation is structured in such a way to 

the Board has decided to create a more formal linkage between 

discourage excessive risk to the business.  

The like-for-like employee costs for the Group were $72.1 million in 

2016 compared with $80.1 million in 2015 (see page 78 for further 

detail). A majority of our employment costs are in Sterling and this 

reduction is driven principally by the fall in value of Sterling against 

the U.S. dollar. 

performance targets and the investment return environment. In 

relation to longer-term RSS awards the Board has set targets by 

reference to appropriate expectations for growth in fully converted 

book value per share plus dividends, an important metric for our 

shareholders and within the investment community for property and 

casualty companies. Relative total shareholder return will continue  

to account for 25 per cent of the award. Further details are set out  

Overall, in light of the annual and three-year performance delivered, 

on pages 69 to 71 of this report.  

the Committee is satisfied that there has been a robust link between 

performance and reward for Executive Directors. 

The final section of this report is the Annual Report on 

Remuneration which provides detailed disclosure on how the policy 

will be implemented for 2017 and how Directors have been paid in 

relation to 2016.  

The disclosures provide our shareholders with the information 

necessary to form a judgement as to the link between Company 

performance and how the Executive Directors are paid. This Annual 

Statement together with the Annual Report on Remuneration will be 

subject to an advisory vote and I hope that you will be able to support 

the resolution at the forthcoming AGM. Additionally, the proposed 

new Remuneration Policy for 2017–2020 and the revised RSS rules 

will both be put forward at the 2017 AGM for a binding vote. The 

Committee is committed to maintaining an open and constructive 

dialogue with our shareholders on remuneration matters and  

I welcome any feedback you may have.  

Simon Fraser 

Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION POLICY SECTION 
As a company incorporated in Bermuda, Lancashire is not bound  
by UK law or regulation in the area of Directors’ remuneration  
to the same extent that it applies to UK incorporated companies. 
However, by virtue of the Company’s premium listing on the  
LSE, and for the purposes of explaining its compliance against  
the requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code, the  
Board is committed to providing full information on Directors’ 
remuneration to shareholders. 

The Company’s first Remuneration Policy was approved by 
shareholders at the 2014 AGM. That policy had a three-year life and 
will expire at the 2017 AGM.  

During the year, the Committee completed a review of executive 
remuneration which sought to ensure continued alignment with  
the Company’s strategy and take account of good and developing 
practice. The revised Remuneration Policy for the Company’s 
Directors is set out in this report and will be put forward for 
shareholder approval at the AGM on 3 May 2017. If the policy is 
approved, it will take effect immediately following the 2017 AGM  
and it is intended to apply for a period of three years from the 2017 
AGM. The revised Remuneration Policy contains details of the 
Company’s policy to govern future payments that will be made to 
Directors. If approved, all remuneration and loss of office payments 
made after 3 May 2017 will only be made if they are consistent with 
the approved Remuneration Policy. Full details of how the Company 
will implement the revised Remuneration Policy in 2017 is provided 
in the Annual Report on Remuneration section starting on page 69. 

The Annual Report on Remuneration also details the remuneration 
paid to Directors in respect of the 2016 financial year in accordance 
with the policy approved at the 2014 AGM. 

The revised Remuneration Policy has been developed taking  
into account the principles of the Code and the views of our  
major shareholders.  

GOVERNANCE AND APPROACH 
The Company’s proposed Remuneration Policy is geared  
towards providing a level of remuneration which attracts, retains  
and motivates Executive Directors of the highest calibre to further 
the Company’s interests and to optimise long-term shareholder  
value creation, within appropriate risk parameters. The proposed 
Remuneration Policy also seeks to ensure that Executive Directors 
are provided with appropriate incentives to drive individual 
performance and to reward them fairly for their contribution  
to the successful performance of the Company. 

The Remuneration Committee and the Board have considered 
whether any element of the proposed Remuneration Policy  
could conceivably encourage Executive Directors to take 
inappropriate risks and have concluded that this is not the  
case, given the following: 

•  there is an appropriate balance between fixed and variable  
pay, and therefore Executive Directors are not required  
to earn performance-related pay to meet their day-to-day  
living expenses; 

•  there is a blend of short-term and long-term performance metrics 
with an appropriate mix of performance conditions, meaning that 
there is no undue focus on any one particular metric; 

•  there is a high level of share ownership amongst Executive 

Directors, meaning that there is a strong focus on sustainable  
long-term shareholder value; and 

•  the Company has the power to claw back bonuses (including the 
deferred element of the annual bonus) and long-term incentive 
payments made to Executive Directors in the event of material 
misstatements in the Group’s consolidated financial statements, 
errors in the calculation of any performance condition, or the 
Executive Director ceasing to be a Director and/or employee  
due to gross misconduct. 

HOW THE VIEWS OF SHAREHOLDERS ARE TAKEN  
INTO ACCOUNT 
The Committee Chairman and, where appropriate, the Company 
Chairman, consult with major investors and representative bodies  
on any significant remuneration proposal relating to Executive 
Directors. Views of shareholders at the AGM, and feedback  
received at other times, will be considered by the Committee. 

HOW THE VIEWS OF EMPLOYEES ARE TAKEN  
INTO ACCOUNT 
The Remuneration Committee takes into account levels of  
pay elsewhere in the Group when determining the pay levels for 
Executive Directors. The proposed Remuneration Policy for all staff 
is, in principle, broadly the same as that for Executive Directors in 
that any of the Group’s employees may be offered similarly structured 
packages, with participation in annual bonus and long-term incentive 
plans, although award types (restricted cash, restricted stock or 
performance shares) and size may vary between different categories  
of staff. For Executive Directors, with higher remuneration levels,  
a higher proportion of the compensation package is subject to 
performance pay, share-based remuneration and deferral. This 
ensures that there is a strong link between remuneration, Company 
performance and the interests of shareholders. 

Reflecting good practice in this area, Executive Directors’ pension 
provision is no more generous than the pension contributions made 
to employees in the Group (in percentage of salary terms). 

The Company does not consult with employees on Executive 
Directors’ remuneration. However, as noted above, the Committee  
is made aware of pay structures across the wider Group when setting 
the Remuneration Policy for Executive Directors.  

CHANGES MADE TO THE POLICY  
Following the review of the remuneration arrangements for 
Executive Directors, some changes were introduced to the policy to 
reflect changes in best practice and to provide a limited amount of 
additional flexibility.  

As mentioned above, the most material policy changes include the 
introduction of a two-year holding period on long-term incentive 
awards and a strengthening of share ownership guidelines. 

62 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

63 
63

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

REMUNERATION POLICY TABLE 
Base Salary 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Helps recruit, motivate and retain high-calibre Executive Directors by offering salaries at market  

Operation  

competitive levels. 
Reflects individual experience and role. 

Normally reviewed annually and fixed for 12 months, typically effective from 1 January. Positioning and 
annual increases influenced by: 
•  role, experience and performance; 
•  change in broader workforce salary; 
•  changes to the size and complexity of the business; and 
•  changes in responsibility or position. 
Salaries are benchmarked periodically against insurance company peers in the UK, U.S. and in Bermuda. 

Opportunity 

No maximum. 

Benefits 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Market competitive structure to support recruitment and retention.  

Medical cover aims to ensure minimal business interruption as a result of illness. 

Operation  

Executive Directors’ benefits may include healthcare, dental, vision, gym membership and life insurance. 
Other additional benefits may be offered from time to time that the Committee considers appropriate based 
on the Executive Director’s circumstances.  
Executive Directors who are expatriates or are required to relocate may be eligible for a housing allowance or 
other relocation-related expenses. 
Any reasonable business-related expense can be reimbursed, including any personal tax thereon if such 
expense is determined to be a taxable benefit. 

Opportunity 

No maximum. 

Pension 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Contribution towards funding post-retirement lifestyle. 

Operation  

The Company operates a defined contribution pension scheme (via outsourced pension providers)  
or cash-in-lieu of pension. 
There is a salary sacrifice structure in the UK. 
There is the opportunity for additional voluntary contributions to be made by individuals, if elected. 

Opportunity 

Company contribution is currently ten per cent of base salary. 

Annual Bonus1,2 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Rewards the achievement of financial and personal targets. 

Operation 

The annual bonus is based on financial and personal performance. 
The precise weightings may differ each year, although there will be a greater focus on financial as opposed to 
personal performance. 
The Committee will have the ability to override the bonus outcome by either increasing or decreasing the 
amount payable (subject to the cap) to ensure a robust link between reward and performance. 
At least 25 per cent of each Executive Director’s bonus is automatically deferred into shares as nil  
cost options or conditional awards over three years, with one third vesting each subsequent year. 
A dividend equivalent provision operates enabling dividends to be accrued (in cash or shares) on  
unvested deferred bonus shares in the form of nil cost options up to the point of exercise. 
The bonus is subject to claw back if the financial statements of the Company were materially misstated  
or an error occurred in assessing the performance conditions on bonus and/or if the Executive ceased  
to be a Director or employee due to gross misconduct. 

64 
64 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Opportunity 

The maximum bonus for Executive Directors for achieving target level of performance as a percentage of salary 

is 200 per cent of salary. Maximum opportunity is two times target. 

Note: The Committee may set bonus opportunities less than the amounts set out above – see Implementation of 

Policy section of the Annual Report on Remuneration.  

Performance Metrics 

The weightings that apply to the bonus measures and the degree of stretch in objectives may vary each year 

depending on the business aims and the broader economic or industry environment at the start of the relevant 

year. For Executive Directors, the financial component will be at least 75 per cent of the overall opportunity,  

and no more than 25 per cent will be based on personal or strategic objectives. 

Purpose and Link  

Rewards Executive Directors for achieving superior returns for shareholders over a longer-term time frame. 

Long Term Incentives (LTI)  

to Strategy 

Operation2,3 

Financial Performance 

other financial KPI3. 

The financial component is based on the Company’s key financial measures of performance. For any year, these 

may include RoE, growth in BVS, profit, comprehensive income, combined ratio, investment return or any 

Typically, a sliding scale of targets applies for financial performance targets. Bonus is earned on an incremental 

basis once a predetermined threshold level is achieved. Up to 25 per cent of the total bonus opportunity is 

payable for achieving threshold/median rising to maximum bonus for stretch/upper quartile performance. 

The degree of stretch in targets may vary each year depending on the business aims and the broader economic 

or industry environment at the start of the relevant year. 

Personal Performance 

Personal performance is based upon achievement of clearly articulated objectives. A performance rating is 

attributed to participating Executive Directors, which determines the pay-out for this part of the bonus. 

Enables Executive Directors to build a meaningful shareholding over time and align goals with shareholders. 

RSS awards are normally made annually in the form of nil cost options (or conditional awards) with vesting 

dependent on the achievement of performance conditions over at least three financial years, commencing with 

the year of grant. This three-year period is longer than the typical pattern of loss reserve development on the 

Group’s insurance business, which is approximately two years. 

The number of awards will normally be determined by reference to the share price around the time of grant 

unless the Committee, at its discretion, determines otherwise. 

The Committee considers carefully the quantum of awards each year to ensure that they are competitive in light 

of peer practice and the targets set. 

Awards are subject to claw back if there is a material misstatement in the Company’s financial statements, an 

error in the calculation of any performance conditions or if the Executive Director ceases to be a Director or 

employee due to gross misconduct. 

A dividend equivalent provision operates enabling dividends to be accrued (in cash or shares) on RSS awards up 

The Committee has the discretion, in exceptional circumstances, to settle an award made to Executive Directors 

Opportunity 

Award levels are determined primarily by seniority. A maximum individual grant limit of 350 per cent  

A two-year post-vesting holding period applies to awards made to Executive Directors since 2016. 

Note: The Committee may set the normal level of award at less than the percentage set out above – see 

Implementation of Remuneration Policy section of the Annual Report on Remuneration. 

Performance Metrics  

Awards vest at the end of a three-year performance period based on performance measures reflecting the  

long-term strategy of the business at the time of grant.  

These may include measures such as TSR, RoE/BVS, Company profitability, or any other relevant  

to the point of exercise. 

in cash. 

of salary applies.  

financial measures. 

remains appropriate. 

threshold performance. 

If more than one measure is used, the Committee will review the weightings between the measures chosen  

and the target ranges prior to each LTI grant to ensure that the overall balance and level of stretch  

A sliding scale of targets applies for financial metrics with no more than 25 per cent vesting for  

For TSR, none of this part of the award will vest below median ranking or achievement of an index. No more 

than 25 per cent of this part of the award will vest for achieving median or index.  

www.lancashiregroup.com 

65 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

REMUNERATION POLICY TABLE 

Base Salary 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Helps recruit, motivate and retain high-calibre Executive Directors by offering salaries at market  

Operation  

Normally reviewed annually and fixed for 12 months, typically effective from 1 January. Positioning and 

competitive levels. 

Reflects individual experience and role. 

annual increases influenced by: 

•  role, experience and performance; 

•  change in broader workforce salary; 

•  changes to the size and complexity of the business; and 

•  changes in responsibility or position. 

Salaries are benchmarked periodically against insurance company peers in the UK, U.S. and in Bermuda. 

Opportunity 

No maximum. 

Benefits 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Market competitive structure to support recruitment and retention.  

Medical cover aims to ensure minimal business interruption as a result of illness. 

Operation  

Executive Directors’ benefits may include healthcare, dental, vision, gym membership and life insurance. 

Other additional benefits may be offered from time to time that the Committee considers appropriate based 

on the Executive Director’s circumstances.  

other relocation-related expenses. 

Executive Directors who are expatriates or are required to relocate may be eligible for a housing allowance or 

Any reasonable business-related expense can be reimbursed, including any personal tax thereon if such 

expense is determined to be a taxable benefit. 

Opportunity 

No maximum. 

Pension 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Contribution towards funding post-retirement lifestyle. 

Operation  

The Company operates a defined contribution pension scheme (via outsourced pension providers)  

or cash-in-lieu of pension. 

There is a salary sacrifice structure in the UK. 

Opportunity 

Company contribution is currently ten per cent of base salary. 

There is the opportunity for additional voluntary contributions to be made by individuals, if elected. 

Annual Bonus1,2 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Rewards the achievement of financial and personal targets. 

Operation 

The annual bonus is based on financial and personal performance. 

The precise weightings may differ each year, although there will be a greater focus on financial as opposed to 

personal performance. 

The Committee will have the ability to override the bonus outcome by either increasing or decreasing the 

amount payable (subject to the cap) to ensure a robust link between reward and performance. 

At least 25 per cent of each Executive Director’s bonus is automatically deferred into shares as nil  

cost options or conditional awards over three years, with one third vesting each subsequent year. 

A dividend equivalent provision operates enabling dividends to be accrued (in cash or shares) on  

unvested deferred bonus shares in the form of nil cost options up to the point of exercise. 

The bonus is subject to claw back if the financial statements of the Company were materially misstated  

or an error occurred in assessing the performance conditions on bonus and/or if the Executive ceased  

to be a Director or employee due to gross misconduct. 

64 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

Opportunity 

Performance Metrics 

The maximum bonus for Executive Directors for achieving target level of performance as a percentage of salary 
is 200 per cent of salary. Maximum opportunity is two times target. 
Note: The Committee may set bonus opportunities less than the amounts set out above – see Implementation of 
Policy section of the Annual Report on Remuneration.  

The weightings that apply to the bonus measures and the degree of stretch in objectives may vary each year 
depending on the business aims and the broader economic or industry environment at the start of the relevant 
year. For Executive Directors, the financial component will be at least 75 per cent of the overall opportunity,  
and no more than 25 per cent will be based on personal or strategic objectives. 
Financial Performance 
The financial component is based on the Company’s key financial measures of performance. For any year, these 
may include RoE, growth in BVS, profit, comprehensive income, combined ratio, investment return or any 
other financial KPI3. 
Typically, a sliding scale of targets applies for financial performance targets. Bonus is earned on an incremental 
basis once a predetermined threshold level is achieved. Up to 25 per cent of the total bonus opportunity is 
payable for achieving threshold/median rising to maximum bonus for stretch/upper quartile performance. 
The degree of stretch in targets may vary each year depending on the business aims and the broader economic 
or industry environment at the start of the relevant year. 
Personal Performance 
Personal performance is based upon achievement of clearly articulated objectives. A performance rating is 
attributed to participating Executive Directors, which determines the pay-out for this part of the bonus. 

Long Term Incentives (LTI)  

Purpose and Link  
to Strategy 

Operation2,3 

Opportunity 

Performance Metrics  

Rewards Executive Directors for achieving superior returns for shareholders over a longer-term time frame. 
Enables Executive Directors to build a meaningful shareholding over time and align goals with shareholders. 

RSS awards are normally made annually in the form of nil cost options (or conditional awards) with vesting 
dependent on the achievement of performance conditions over at least three financial years, commencing with 
the year of grant. This three-year period is longer than the typical pattern of loss reserve development on the 
Group’s insurance business, which is approximately two years. 
The number of awards will normally be determined by reference to the share price around the time of grant 
unless the Committee, at its discretion, determines otherwise. 
The Committee considers carefully the quantum of awards each year to ensure that they are competitive in light 
of peer practice and the targets set. 
Awards are subject to claw back if there is a material misstatement in the Company’s financial statements, an 
error in the calculation of any performance conditions or if the Executive Director ceases to be a Director or 
employee due to gross misconduct. 
A dividend equivalent provision operates enabling dividends to be accrued (in cash or shares) on RSS awards up 
to the point of exercise. 
The Committee has the discretion, in exceptional circumstances, to settle an award made to Executive Directors 
in cash. 
A two-year post-vesting holding period applies to awards made to Executive Directors since 2016. 

Award levels are determined primarily by seniority. A maximum individual grant limit of 350 per cent  
of salary applies.  
Note: The Committee may set the normal level of award at less than the percentage set out above – see 
Implementation of Remuneration Policy section of the Annual Report on Remuneration. 

Awards vest at the end of a three-year performance period based on performance measures reflecting the  
long-term strategy of the business at the time of grant.  
These may include measures such as TSR, RoE/BVS, Company profitability, or any other relevant  
financial measures. 
If more than one measure is used, the Committee will review the weightings between the measures chosen  
and the target ranges prior to each LTI grant to ensure that the overall balance and level of stretch  
remains appropriate. 
A sliding scale of targets applies for financial metrics with no more than 25 per cent vesting for  
threshold performance. 
For TSR, none of this part of the award will vest below median ranking or achievement of an index. No more 
than 25 per cent of this part of the award will vest for achieving median or index.  

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

65 
65

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

REMUNERATION POLICY TABLE CONTINUED 
Share Ownership Guidelines4 

Under the guidelines, Executive Directors are expected to maintain an interest equivalent in value to no less than two times salary over time. 
Until such time as the guideline threshold is achieved Executive Directors are required to retain no less than 50 per cent of the net of tax 
value of awards that vest under the RSS.  

Chairman and Non-Executive Directors’ (‘NEDs’) fees 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Helps recruit, motivate and retain a Chairman and Non-Executive Directors of a high calibre by offering  

Operation 

a market competitive fee level. 

The Chairman is paid a single fee for his responsibilities as Chairman. The level of these fees is reviewed 
periodically by the Committee and the CEO by reference to broadly comparable businesses in terms of size 
and operations. 
In general, the Non-Executive Directors are paid a single fee for all responsibilities, although supplemental 
fees may be payable where additional responsibilities are undertaken, including a Non-Executive Director role 
on a subsidiary board. 
Any reasonable business-related expenses (including any personal tax payable) can be reimbursed. 

Opportunity 

No maximum. 

(1)  The Committee operates the annual bonus plan and RSS according to their respective rules and in accordance with the Listing Rules. The Committee, consistent with normal market practice, retains discretion over a 

number of areas relating to the operation and administration of these plans and this discretion forms part of this policy. 

(2)  All historic awards that were granted under any current or previous share scheme operated by the Company that remain outstanding remain eligible to vest based on their original award terms and this provision forms 

part of the policy. 

(3) Performance measures: these may include the performance indicators shown on pages 20 to 21 or others described within the Annual Report and Accounts Glossary commencing on page 156 or any other measure that 

supports the achievement of the Company’s short to long-term objectives. 

(4) Share Ownership interest equivalent is defined as wholly owned shares or the net of taxes value of RSS awards which have vested but are unexercised and the net of tax value of deferred bonus RSS awards. Shares include 

those owned by persons closely associated with the relevant Executive Director. 

ILLUSTRATIONS OF ANNUAL APPLICATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY 
The charts below show the potential total remuneration opportunities for the Executive Directors in 2017 at different levels of performance 
under the proposed policy, if it is approved by shareholders at the 2017 AGM. 

)
M
$
(
N
O
I
T
A
S
N
E
P
M
O
C
L
A
T
O
T

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

5.84
42%

42%

16%

3.38
36%

36%

28%

0.92

100%

3.97
39%

43%

18%

2.35

33%

36%

31%

0.73
100%

Fixed pay

On-target

Maximum

Fixed pay

On-target

Maximum

CEO

CFO

Fixed pay

Annual bonus

LTI Awards (RSS)

Fixed pay = 2017 Salary + Actual Value of 2016 Benefits + 2017 Pension Contribution. 

On-target = Fixed Pay + Target Bonus (being half the Maximum Bonus Opportunity) + Target Value of 2017 RSS grant  
(assuming 50 per cent vesting with face values of grant).  

Maximum = Fixed Pay + Maximum Bonus Opportunity + Maximum Value of 2017 RSS grant (assuming 100 per cent vesting  
with the face values of grant). 

No account has been taken of any share price growth or dividend equivalent accruals. 

APPROACH TO RECRUITMENT REMUNERATION 

The remuneration package for a new Executive Director would be set in accordance with the terms of the Company’s prevailing approved 

Remuneration Policy at the time of appointment and take into account the skills and experience of the individual, the market rate for a 

candidate of that experience and the importance of securing the relevant individual. 

Salary would be provided at such a level as is required to attract the most appropriate candidate. The Committee retains the flexibility to set 

base salary for a newly appointed Executive Director below the mid-market level and allow them to progress quickly to or around mid-market 

level once expertise and performance have been proven. This decision would take into account all relevant factors noted above. 

The annual bonus and LTI potential would be in line with the Policy. Depending on the timing of the appointment, the Committee may 

deem it appropriate to set different bonus performance measures for the performance year during which he or she became an Executive 

Director. The Committee may grant an LTI award shortly after joining, up to the plan limits set out in the Remuneration Policy table 

(assuming the Company is not in a closed period). 

In addition, the Committee may offer additional cash and/or share-based elements to replace deferred or incentive pay forfeited by an 

executive leaving a previous employer. It would seek to ensure, where possible, that these awards would be consistent with awards forfeited in 

terms of vesting periods (which may be less than three years), expected value and performance conditions. 

For an internal Executive Director appointment, any variable pay element awarded in respect of the prior role may be allowed to pay out 

according to its terms, adjusted as relevant to take into account the appointment. In addition, any other ongoing remuneration obligations 

existing prior to appointment may continue.  

The Committee may agree that the Company will meet certain relocation expenses as appropriate and is able to provide expatriate benefits 

including housing, a relocation allowance, assignment-related costs or tax equalisation. 

SERVICE CONTRACTS AND LOSS OF OFFICE PAYMENT POLICY FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS 

Executive Directors have service contracts with six-month notice periods. In the event of termination, the Executive Directors’ contracts 

provide for compensation up to a maximum of base salary plus the value of benefits to which the Executive Directors are contractually 

entitled for the unexpired portion of the notice period. The Company may pay statutory claims. No Executive Director has a contractual right 

to a bonus for any period of notice not worked.  

of no more than 12 months from either party. 

The service contract for a new appointment will be on similar terms as existing Executive Directors, with the facility to include a notice period 

The Company seeks to apply the principle of mitigation in the payment of compensation on the termination of the service contract of any 

Executive Director. There are no special provisions in the service contracts for payments to Executive Directors on a change of control of  

the Company. 

In the event of an exit of an Executive Director, the overriding principle will be to honour contractual remuneration entitlements and 

determine, on an equitable basis, the appropriate treatment of deferred and performance linked elements of the package, taking account of 

the circumstances. Failure will not be rewarded.  

Depending on the leaver classification, an Executive Director may be eligible for certain payments or benefits continuation after cessation  

If an Executive Director resigns or is summarily dismissed, salary, pension and benefits will cease on the last day of employment and there will 

of employment. 

be no further payments. 

66 
66 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

67 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

REMUNERATION POLICY TABLE CONTINUED 

Share Ownership Guidelines4 

Under the guidelines, Executive Directors are expected to maintain an interest equivalent in value to no less than two times salary over time. 

Until such time as the guideline threshold is achieved Executive Directors are required to retain no less than 50 per cent of the net of tax 

value of awards that vest under the RSS.  

a market competitive fee level. 

and operations. 

on a subsidiary board. 

Chairman and Non-Executive Directors’ (‘NEDs’) fees 

Purpose and Link to Strategy  Helps recruit, motivate and retain a Chairman and Non-Executive Directors of a high calibre by offering  

Operation 

The Chairman is paid a single fee for his responsibilities as Chairman. The level of these fees is reviewed 

periodically by the Committee and the CEO by reference to broadly comparable businesses in terms of size 

In general, the Non-Executive Directors are paid a single fee for all responsibilities, although supplemental 

fees may be payable where additional responsibilities are undertaken, including a Non-Executive Director role 

Opportunity 

No maximum. 

Any reasonable business-related expenses (including any personal tax payable) can be reimbursed. 

(1)  The Committee operates the annual bonus plan and RSS according to their respective rules and in accordance with the Listing Rules. The Committee, consistent with normal market practice, retains discretion over a 

number of areas relating to the operation and administration of these plans and this discretion forms part of this policy. 

(2)  All historic awards that were granted under any current or previous share scheme operated by the Company that remain outstanding remain eligible to vest based on their original award terms and this provision forms 

(3) Performance measures: these may include the performance indicators shown on pages 20 to 21 or others described within the Annual Report and Accounts Glossary commencing on page 156 or any other measure that 

(4) Share Ownership interest equivalent is defined as wholly owned shares or the net of taxes value of RSS awards which have vested but are unexercised and the net of tax value of deferred bonus RSS awards. Shares include 

part of the policy. 

supports the achievement of the Company’s short to long-term objectives. 

those owned by persons closely associated with the relevant Executive Director. 

ILLUSTRATIONS OF ANNUAL APPLICATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY 

The charts below show the potential total remuneration opportunities for the Executive Directors in 2017 at different levels of performance 

under the proposed policy, if it is approved by shareholders at the 2017 AGM. 

APPROACH TO RECRUITMENT REMUNERATION 
The remuneration package for a new Executive Director would be set in accordance with the terms of the Company’s prevailing approved 
Remuneration Policy at the time of appointment and take into account the skills and experience of the individual, the market rate for a 
candidate of that experience and the importance of securing the relevant individual. 

Salary would be provided at such a level as is required to attract the most appropriate candidate. The Committee retains the flexibility to set 
base salary for a newly appointed Executive Director below the mid-market level and allow them to progress quickly to or around mid-market 
level once expertise and performance have been proven. This decision would take into account all relevant factors noted above. 

The annual bonus and LTI potential would be in line with the Policy. Depending on the timing of the appointment, the Committee may 
deem it appropriate to set different bonus performance measures for the performance year during which he or she became an Executive 
Director. The Committee may grant an LTI award shortly after joining, up to the plan limits set out in the Remuneration Policy table 
(assuming the Company is not in a closed period). 

In addition, the Committee may offer additional cash and/or share-based elements to replace deferred or incentive pay forfeited by an 
executive leaving a previous employer. It would seek to ensure, where possible, that these awards would be consistent with awards forfeited in 
terms of vesting periods (which may be less than three years), expected value and performance conditions. 

For an internal Executive Director appointment, any variable pay element awarded in respect of the prior role may be allowed to pay out 
according to its terms, adjusted as relevant to take into account the appointment. In addition, any other ongoing remuneration obligations 
existing prior to appointment may continue.  

The Committee may agree that the Company will meet certain relocation expenses as appropriate and is able to provide expatriate benefits 
including housing, a relocation allowance, assignment-related costs or tax equalisation. 

SERVICE CONTRACTS AND LOSS OF OFFICE PAYMENT POLICY FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS 
Executive Directors have service contracts with six-month notice periods. In the event of termination, the Executive Directors’ contracts 
provide for compensation up to a maximum of base salary plus the value of benefits to which the Executive Directors are contractually 
entitled for the unexpired portion of the notice period. The Company may pay statutory claims. No Executive Director has a contractual right 
to a bonus for any period of notice not worked.  

The service contract for a new appointment will be on similar terms as existing Executive Directors, with the facility to include a notice period 
of no more than 12 months from either party. 

The Company seeks to apply the principle of mitigation in the payment of compensation on the termination of the service contract of any 
Executive Director. There are no special provisions in the service contracts for payments to Executive Directors on a change of control of  
the Company. 

In the event of an exit of an Executive Director, the overriding principle will be to honour contractual remuneration entitlements and 
determine, on an equitable basis, the appropriate treatment of deferred and performance linked elements of the package, taking account of 
the circumstances. Failure will not be rewarded.  

Depending on the leaver classification, an Executive Director may be eligible for certain payments or benefits continuation after cessation  
of employment. 

If an Executive Director resigns or is summarily dismissed, salary, pension and benefits will cease on the last day of employment and there will 
be no further payments. 

Fixed pay = 2017 Salary + Actual Value of 2016 Benefits + 2017 Pension Contribution. 

On-target = Fixed Pay + Target Bonus (being half the Maximum Bonus Opportunity) + Target Value of 2017 RSS grant  

(assuming 50 per cent vesting with face values of grant).  

Maximum = Fixed Pay + Maximum Bonus Opportunity + Maximum Value of 2017 RSS grant (assuming 100 per cent vesting  

with the face values of grant). 

No account has been taken of any share price growth or dividend equivalent accruals. 

66 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

67 
67

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

LEAVER ON ARRANGED TERMS OR GOOD LEAVER 
If an Executive Director leaves on agreed terms, including compassionate circumstances, there may be payments after cessation of 
employment. Salary, pension and benefits will be paid up to the length of the agreed notice period or agreed period of gardening leave.  

Subject to performance, a bonus may be payable at the discretion of the Committee pro-rata for the portion of the financial year worked.  

ANNUAL REPORT ON REMUNERATION  

This Annual Report on Remuneration together with the Chairman’s Statement, as detailed on pages 61 and 62, will be subject to an advisory 

vote at the 2017 AGM. The information on page 71 with respect to Directors’ emoluments and onwards through page 79 has been audited  

Vested but unexercised deferred bonus RSS awards will remain exercisable. Unvested deferred bonus RSS awards will ordinarily vest in full, 
relative to the normal vesting period. All such vested awards must be exercised within 12 months of the vesting date.  

IMPLEMENTATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY FOR 2017 

In relation to the Policy described in the previous section, the following section sets out additional disclosure on the expected application of 

Vested but unexercised RSS awards may remain exercisable for 12 months. Unvested awards may vest on the normal vesting date unless  
the Committee determines that such awards shall instead vest at the time of cessation. Unvested awards will only vest to the extent that the 
performance conditions have been satisfied (over the full or curtailed period as relevant). A pro-rata reduction in the size of awards may 
apply, based upon the period of time after the grant date and ending on the date of cessation of employment relative to the three-year or 
other relevant vesting period.  

The Committee has discretion to permit unvested RSS awards to vest early rather than continue on the normal vesting timetable and also 
retains discretion as to whether or not to apply (or to apply to a lesser extent) the pro-rata reduction to the RSS awards where it feels the 
reduction would be inappropriate. 

Depending upon circumstances, the Committee may consider other payments in respect of any claims in connection with a termination of 
employment where deemed appropriate, including an unfair dismissal award, outplacement support and assistance with legal fees. 

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT FOR NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS  
The Non-Executive Directors serve subject to the Company’s Bye-laws and under letters of appointment. They are appointed subject to  
re-election at the AGM and are also terminable by either party on six months’ notice except in the event of earlier termination in accordance 
with the Bye-laws. The Non-Executive Directors are typically expected to serve for up to six years, although the Board may invite a Non-
Executive Director to serve for an additional period. Their letters of appointment are available for inspection at the Company’s registered 
office and at each AGM.  

In accordance with best practice under the Code, the Board ordinarily submits the Directors individually for re-election by the shareholders 
at each AGM.  

LEGACY ARRANGEMENTS  
In approving the Policy; authority is given to the Company for the duration of the Policy to honour commitments paid, promised to be paid 
or awarded to: (i) current or former Directors prior to the date of this Policy being approved (provided that such payments or promises were 
consistent with any Remuneration Policy of the Company which was approved by shareholders and was in effect at the time they were made); 
or (ii) to an individual (who subsequently is appointed as a Director of the Company) at a time when the relevant individual was not a 
Director of the Company and, in the opinion of the Committee, was not paid, promised to be paid or awarded as financial consideration of 
that individual becoming a Director of the Company, even where such commitments are inconsistent with the provisions of the revised Policy. 

For the avoidance of doubt, this includes all awards granted under the 2008 RSS rules in accordance with the Policy approved at the 2014 
AGM and to employees of the Company who are not Directors at the date of grant. Outstanding RSS awards that remain unvested or 
unexercised at the date of this report (including for current Executive Directors as detailed on page 75 of the Annual Report on 
Remuneration), remain eligible for vesting or exercise based on their original award terms. 

The Policy approved by shareholders at the 2014 AGM (‘current policy’) will continue to apply until this proposed Policy is approved at the 
2017 AGM. If this proposed Policy is not approved at the 2017 AGM, the current policy will continue to apply in accordance with its terms. 

by EY. 

the Policy for 2017. 

BASE SALARY AND FEES 

Executive Directors 

Increases and resulting salaries effective from 1 January 2017 are set out below: 

•  CEO – salary increased by 3 per cent to $819,545. 

•  CFO – salary increased by 3 per cent to $562,755. 

•  For 2017, increases of 3 per cent are in line with the salary increases across the general workforce population. 

Non-Executive Directors 

The Chairman’s and Non-Executive Directors’ fees are as follows for 2017: 

•  The fee for the Chairman (Peter Clarke) is $350,000 per annum.  

•  The Non-Executive Director fee will remain at $175,000 per annum.  

•  Samantha Hoe-Richardson is a Non-Executive Director of LUK in which capacity she will receive a fee of £50,000 per annum. 

•  Simon Fraser is a Non-Executive Director of CUL in which capacity he will receive a fee of $80,000 per annum. 

For 2017, the CEO will have a target bonus of 150 per cent of salary and, therefore, a maximum opportunity of 300 per cent of salary. This is 

within the approved policy limit and it is in line with last year’s opportunity and represents a maximum bonus opportunity which is 100 per 

cent of salary less than the set policy limit. The CFO’s target bonus opportunity will be in line with the policy at 150 per cent of salary 

The financial and personal portions of the annual bonus will remain unchanged with 75 per cent on financial performance and 25 per cent 

Other Fees 

ANNUAL BONUS 

(maximum 300 per cent). 

on personal performance.  

Financial Performance (75 per cent) 

The Company’s most important financial KPI is RoE, which is the core indicator of the delivery of our strategic priorities of ensuring 

underwriting comes first, effectively balancing risk and return and managing capital nimbly through the insurance cycle (see the strategic 

overview on pages 16 and 17 of this report). Further to consultation with the Company’s major shareholders, the Company has decided both 

to simplify the measure for the financial performance element of the annual bonus targets and to create a more formal linkage between 

performance targets and the investment return environment. Accordingly, for 2017, the financial component is to be based on the 

performance of the Group’s RoE, measured as the internal rate of return of the change in FCBVS plus accrued dividends. 

A sliding scale range of RoE targets has been set by reference to the Risk Free Rate of Return as follows: 

•  25 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a threshold level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 6 per cent (0 per cent vesting will occur below this 

threshold). 

•  50 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 7 per cent.  

•  100 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 8 per cent. 

•  200 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 14 per cent. 

68 
68 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

69 

 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

LEAVER ON ARRANGED TERMS OR GOOD LEAVER 

If an Executive Director leaves on agreed terms, including compassionate circumstances, there may be payments after cessation of 

employment. Salary, pension and benefits will be paid up to the length of the agreed notice period or agreed period of gardening leave.  

Subject to performance, a bonus may be payable at the discretion of the Committee pro-rata for the portion of the financial year worked.  

Vested but unexercised deferred bonus RSS awards will remain exercisable. Unvested deferred bonus RSS awards will ordinarily vest in full, 

relative to the normal vesting period. All such vested awards must be exercised within 12 months of the vesting date.  

Vested but unexercised RSS awards may remain exercisable for 12 months. Unvested awards may vest on the normal vesting date unless  

the Committee determines that such awards shall instead vest at the time of cessation. Unvested awards will only vest to the extent that the 

performance conditions have been satisfied (over the full or curtailed period as relevant). A pro-rata reduction in the size of awards may 

apply, based upon the period of time after the grant date and ending on the date of cessation of employment relative to the three-year or 

other relevant vesting period.  

reduction would be inappropriate. 

The Committee has discretion to permit unvested RSS awards to vest early rather than continue on the normal vesting timetable and also 

retains discretion as to whether or not to apply (or to apply to a lesser extent) the pro-rata reduction to the RSS awards where it feels the 

Depending upon circumstances, the Committee may consider other payments in respect of any claims in connection with a termination of 

employment where deemed appropriate, including an unfair dismissal award, outplacement support and assistance with legal fees. 

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT FOR NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS  

The Non-Executive Directors serve subject to the Company’s Bye-laws and under letters of appointment. They are appointed subject to  

re-election at the AGM and are also terminable by either party on six months’ notice except in the event of earlier termination in accordance 

with the Bye-laws. The Non-Executive Directors are typically expected to serve for up to six years, although the Board may invite a Non-

Executive Director to serve for an additional period. Their letters of appointment are available for inspection at the Company’s registered 

In accordance with best practice under the Code, the Board ordinarily submits the Directors individually for re-election by the shareholders 

office and at each AGM.  

at each AGM.  

LEGACY ARRANGEMENTS  

In approving the Policy; authority is given to the Company for the duration of the Policy to honour commitments paid, promised to be paid 

or awarded to: (i) current or former Directors prior to the date of this Policy being approved (provided that such payments or promises were 

consistent with any Remuneration Policy of the Company which was approved by shareholders and was in effect at the time they were made); 

or (ii) to an individual (who subsequently is appointed as a Director of the Company) at a time when the relevant individual was not a 

Director of the Company and, in the opinion of the Committee, was not paid, promised to be paid or awarded as financial consideration of 

that individual becoming a Director of the Company, even where such commitments are inconsistent with the provisions of the revised Policy. 

For the avoidance of doubt, this includes all awards granted under the 2008 RSS rules in accordance with the Policy approved at the 2014 

AGM and to employees of the Company who are not Directors at the date of grant. Outstanding RSS awards that remain unvested or 

unexercised at the date of this report (including for current Executive Directors as detailed on page 75 of the Annual Report on 

Remuneration), remain eligible for vesting or exercise based on their original award terms. 

The Policy approved by shareholders at the 2014 AGM (‘current policy’) will continue to apply until this proposed Policy is approved at the 

2017 AGM. If this proposed Policy is not approved at the 2017 AGM, the current policy will continue to apply in accordance with its terms. 

ANNUAL REPORT ON REMUNERATION  
This Annual Report on Remuneration together with the Chairman’s Statement, as detailed on pages 61 and 62, will be subject to an advisory 
vote at the 2017 AGM. The information on page 71 with respect to Directors’ emoluments and onwards through page 79 has been audited  
by EY. 

IMPLEMENTATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY FOR 2017 
In relation to the Policy described in the previous section, the following section sets out additional disclosure on the expected application of 
the Policy for 2017. 

BASE SALARY AND FEES 
Executive Directors 
Increases and resulting salaries effective from 1 January 2017 are set out below: 

•  CEO – salary increased by 3 per cent to $819,545. 
•  CFO – salary increased by 3 per cent to $562,755. 
•  For 2017, increases of 3 per cent are in line with the salary increases across the general workforce population. 

Non-Executive Directors 
The Chairman’s and Non-Executive Directors’ fees are as follows for 2017: 

•  The fee for the Chairman (Peter Clarke) is $350,000 per annum.  
•  The Non-Executive Director fee will remain at $175,000 per annum.  

Other Fees 
•  Samantha Hoe-Richardson is a Non-Executive Director of LUK in which capacity she will receive a fee of £50,000 per annum. 
•  Simon Fraser is a Non-Executive Director of CUL in which capacity he will receive a fee of $80,000 per annum. 

ANNUAL BONUS 
For 2017, the CEO will have a target bonus of 150 per cent of salary and, therefore, a maximum opportunity of 300 per cent of salary. This is 
within the approved policy limit and it is in line with last year’s opportunity and represents a maximum bonus opportunity which is 100 per 
cent of salary less than the set policy limit. The CFO’s target bonus opportunity will be in line with the policy at 150 per cent of salary 
(maximum 300 per cent). 

The financial and personal portions of the annual bonus will remain unchanged with 75 per cent on financial performance and 25 per cent 
on personal performance.  

Financial Performance (75 per cent) 
The Company’s most important financial KPI is RoE, which is the core indicator of the delivery of our strategic priorities of ensuring 
underwriting comes first, effectively balancing risk and return and managing capital nimbly through the insurance cycle (see the strategic 
overview on pages 16 and 17 of this report). Further to consultation with the Company’s major shareholders, the Company has decided both 
to simplify the measure for the financial performance element of the annual bonus targets and to create a more formal linkage between 
performance targets and the investment return environment. Accordingly, for 2017, the financial component is to be based on the 
performance of the Group’s RoE, measured as the internal rate of return of the change in FCBVS plus accrued dividends. 

A sliding scale range of RoE targets has been set by reference to the Risk Free Rate of Return as follows: 

•  25 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a threshold level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 6 per cent (0 per cent vesting will occur below this 

threshold). 

•  50 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 7 per cent.  
•  100 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 8 per cent. 
•  200 per cent of target bonus shall be payable at a level of RoE equal to RFRoR + 14 per cent. 

68 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

69 
69

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

There shall be linear interpolation between these points. The Board considers that these target ranges are appropriately challenging, given 
the current difficult insurance market conditions, and will help to ensure a strong and more formulaic link between remuneration for the 
Executive Directors and the Company’s financial performance, the strategy and risk profile of the business and the investment return 
environment, without encouraging excessive risk taking. In future years, the Committee would not normally expect to set vesting points  
below the levels outlined above and, when appropriate, will set higher targets.  

Personal Performance (25 per cent) 
This element of the bonus plan is based upon the individual achievement of clearly articulated objectives created at the beginning of each 
year. The table below sets out a broad summary of the 2017 personal objectives for each Executive Director. 

Executive Director 

Personal Performance 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

Effective leadership and management of the senior executive team and Group. 
Development of the general business strategy. 
Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

Effective leadership and management of the finance function and the Bermuda office. 
Development of the general business strategy. 
Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

The personal targets are broadly common among the Executive Directors, with variances being attributable to the specifics of their respective 
roles. Specific granular areas for personal development within the set broad personal objectives are discussed between the Chairman and the 
Executive Directors and agreed by the Committee. As part of the 2017 annual performance reviews each Executive Director will receive a 
performance rating which will determine the level of personal performance bonus pay-out for which each Executive Director will be eligible. 

RESTRICTED SHARE SCHEME 
Performance Conditions 
For Executive Directors, 2017 RSS awards are subject to a range based on (i) average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends and (ii) 
relative TSR performance conditions, both measured by reference to a period ending on 31 December 2019. These metrics aim to provide an 
appropriate focus on the Company’s underlying financial performance and cycle management, and in the case of relative TSR to provide an 
objective reward for stock market performance measured against the Company’s peers. 

Weighting  
For 2017, the TSR/RoE weighting is 25 per cent on TSR and 75 per cent on average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends. 

Target ranges  
The average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends target range for 2017 awards is: 

•  threshold – 6 per cent; and 
•  maximum – 13 per cent. 

None of the award will vest if average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends is below threshold, 25 per cent of the award will vest at 
threshold, and 100 per cent of the award will vest at maximum. Performance between threshold and maximum is determined on a straight-
line basis. 

The Board and Committee consider that the stretch target represents exceptional performance, given current challenging market 
conditions. The target range closely aligns the longer-term remuneration of our Executive Directors with strong performance, the 
implementation of the business strategy and the interests of our shareholders, but is not so stretching as to encourage excessive risk taking. 

The TSR target for 2017 awards is as follows: 

The Group’s TSR is compared against a comparator group comprising 11 peer companies as disclosed on page 76. 

•  0 per cent will vest for a below median ranking; 

•  25 per cent of the award will vest if Lancashire’s performance is at the median; and 

•  100 per cent of the award will vest for upper quartile and above performance. 

Vesting will be on a proportionate basis for performance between median and upper quartiles. 

Award levels 

2017 RSS award levels are as follows: 

•  CEO – shares to the value of $2,458,636 (being 300 per cent of salary) 

•  CFO – shares to the value of $1,547,577 (being 275 per cent of salary) 

The number of shares awarded shall be determined based on the closing average share price for a period of five trading days immediately 

For RSS awards made in 2016 or subsequent years, Executive Directors are expected to hold vested RSS awards (or the resultant net of tax 

shares) which had a performance period of at least three years, for a further period of not less than two years following vesting. 

SINGLE FIGURE ON REMUNERATION 

The following table presents the Executive Directors’ emoluments in U.S. dollars in respect of the years ended 31 December 2016 and  

Salary

$

810,266

770,955

547,423

530,224

Pension

$

81,027

77,096

54,636

55,880

2016

2015

2016

2015

Taxable 

Benefits1

$ 

20,127

19,785

Annual Bonus5,6 

$  

Long-Term 

 Incentives 

 (RSS)2,3

$ 

Total4

$ 

1,510,554 

1,003,429

3,425,403

1,668,165 

1,316,789

3,852,790

114,445

1,037,248 

831,184

2,584,936

98,273

1,145,474 

1,158,324

2,988,175

(1)    Benefits comprise Bermudian payroll taxes, social insurance, medical, dental and vision coverage and housing and other allowances paid by the Company for expatriates (as is the case for the CFO), but exclude UK 

National Insurance contributions. Taxable benefits for Elaine Whelan for 2015 have been adjusted to reflect final actual benefits. 

(2)    For 2016, the long-term incentive values are based on the 2014 RSS awards which vest at 67.4 per cent on 16 February 2017 and are based on a three-year performance period that ended on 31 December 2016. The 

values are based on the share price at 31 December 2016 and include the value of dividends accrued on vested shares. 

(3)   For 2015, the long-term incentive values were based on the 2013 RSS awards which vested at 75 per cent on 18 February 2016 and were based on a three-year performance period that ended on 31 December 2015. The 

values are re-presented from the 2015 Annual Report and Accounts based on the share price at the vesting date, 18 February 2016, and include the value of dividends accrued on vested shares. 

(4)   Some amounts were paid in Sterling and converted at the average exchange rate of 1.3777 for the year as they are set in U.S. dollars. 

(5)    For 2016, the Lancashire Group delivered solid results in a challenging market. Bonus targets were set at the beginning of 2016 and based on a clear split between Company financial performance and personal 

performance on a 75:25 basis. Company financial performance had two components, absolute financial performance and relative financial performance weighted 60:40 respectively. The absolute component paid out at 

131.25 per cent of target as the RoE was 13.5 per cent against a target level of 11 per cent and the relative component is provisionally cited at 58.33 per cent (with an estimated 50 per cent of maximum pay-out) pending 

the final audited results of peer companies needed in order to calculate the final bonus payable. For the personal element of Executive Directors’ bonus opportunity the pay-out will be 75 per cent of the maximum for 

the CEO and 75 per cent of the maximum for the CFO. For full details of Executive Directors’ bonuses and the associated performance delivered see pages 72 and 73. 25 per cent of Executive Directors’ annual bonus is 

deferred into the long-term incentive scheme without performance conditions, vesting at 33.33 per cent over a three-year period. 

(6)  Annual bonus figures for Alex Maloney and Elaine Whelan for 2015 have been re-presented to reflect final relative performance data which was used to calculate the bonus figures and were finalised after all peer data 

was released in 2016, after the 2015 Directors’ Remuneration Report was published for circulation. For 2015, the relative component had been provisionally stated to pay out at 50 per cent of the maximum, however 

after final results of all peers were released, this element paid out at 158 per cent of target (being 72 per cent of the maximum).  

prior to the date of the award.  

Post vesting holding period 

31 December 2015. 

Executive Directors  

Alex Maloney4,, CEO 

Elaine Whelan4, CFO 

70 
70 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

71 

 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

There shall be linear interpolation between these points. The Board considers that these target ranges are appropriately challenging, given 

The TSR target for 2017 awards is as follows: 

the current difficult insurance market conditions, and will help to ensure a strong and more formulaic link between remuneration for the 

Executive Directors and the Company’s financial performance, the strategy and risk profile of the business and the investment return 

environment, without encouraging excessive risk taking. In future years, the Committee would not normally expect to set vesting points  

below the levels outlined above and, when appropriate, will set higher targets.  

Personal Performance (25 per cent) 

The Group’s TSR is compared against a comparator group comprising 11 peer companies as disclosed on page 76. 

•  0 per cent will vest for a below median ranking; 
•  25 per cent of the award will vest if Lancashire’s performance is at the median; and 
•  100 per cent of the award will vest for upper quartile and above performance. 

This element of the bonus plan is based upon the individual achievement of clearly articulated objectives created at the beginning of each 

Vesting will be on a proportionate basis for performance between median and upper quartiles. 

year. The table below sets out a broad summary of the 2017 personal objectives for each Executive Director. 

Executive Director 

Personal Performance 

Alex Maloney 

Effective leadership and management of the senior executive team and Group. 

Elaine Whelan 

Effective leadership and management of the finance function and the Bermuda office. 

Development of the general business strategy. 

Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

Development of the general business strategy. 

Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

The personal targets are broadly common among the Executive Directors, with variances being attributable to the specifics of their respective 

roles. Specific granular areas for personal development within the set broad personal objectives are discussed between the Chairman and the 

Executive Directors and agreed by the Committee. As part of the 2017 annual performance reviews each Executive Director will receive a 

performance rating which will determine the level of personal performance bonus pay-out for which each Executive Director will be eligible. 

RESTRICTED SHARE SCHEME 

Performance Conditions 

Weighting  

Target ranges  

line basis. 

•  threshold – 6 per cent; and 

•  maximum – 13 per cent. 

For 2017, the TSR/RoE weighting is 25 per cent on TSR and 75 per cent on average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends. 

The average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends target range for 2017 awards is: 

None of the award will vest if average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends is below threshold, 25 per cent of the award will vest at 

threshold, and 100 per cent of the award will vest at maximum. Performance between threshold and maximum is determined on a straight-

The Board and Committee consider that the stretch target represents exceptional performance, given current challenging market 

conditions. The target range closely aligns the longer-term remuneration of our Executive Directors with strong performance, the 

implementation of the business strategy and the interests of our shareholders, but is not so stretching as to encourage excessive risk taking. 

Award levels 
2017 RSS award levels are as follows: 

•  CEO – shares to the value of $2,458,636 (being 300 per cent of salary) 
•  CFO – shares to the value of $1,547,577 (being 275 per cent of salary) 

The number of shares awarded shall be determined based on the closing average share price for a period of five trading days immediately 
prior to the date of the award.  

Post vesting holding period 
For RSS awards made in 2016 or subsequent years, Executive Directors are expected to hold vested RSS awards (or the resultant net of tax 
shares) which had a performance period of at least three years, for a further period of not less than two years following vesting. 

SINGLE FIGURE ON REMUNERATION 
The following table presents the Executive Directors’ emoluments in U.S. dollars in respect of the years ended 31 December 2016 and  
31 December 2015. 

For Executive Directors, 2017 RSS awards are subject to a range based on (i) average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends and (ii) 

relative TSR performance conditions, both measured by reference to a period ending on 31 December 2019. These metrics aim to provide an 

appropriate focus on the Company’s underlying financial performance and cycle management, and in the case of relative TSR to provide an 

objective reward for stock market performance measured against the Company’s peers. 

Executive Directors  

Alex Maloney4,, CEO 

Elaine Whelan4, CFO 

Salary
$

810,266

770,955

547,423

530,224

Pension
$

81,027

77,096

54,636

55,880

2016

2015

2016

2015

Taxable 
Benefits1
$ 

20,127

19,785

Annual Bonus5,6 
$  

Long-Term 
 Incentives 
 (RSS)2,3
$ 

Total4
$ 

1,510,554 

1,003,429

3,425,403

1,668,165 

1,316,789

3,852,790

114,445

1,037,248 

831,184

2,584,936

98,273

1,145,474 

1,158,324

2,988,175

(1)    Benefits comprise Bermudian payroll taxes, social insurance, medical, dental and vision coverage and housing and other allowances paid by the Company for expatriates (as is the case for the CFO), but exclude UK 

National Insurance contributions. Taxable benefits for Elaine Whelan for 2015 have been adjusted to reflect final actual benefits. 

(2)    For 2016, the long-term incentive values are based on the 2014 RSS awards which vest at 67.4 per cent on 16 February 2017 and are based on a three-year performance period that ended on 31 December 2016. The 

values are based on the share price at 31 December 2016 and include the value of dividends accrued on vested shares. 

(3)   For 2015, the long-term incentive values were based on the 2013 RSS awards which vested at 75 per cent on 18 February 2016 and were based on a three-year performance period that ended on 31 December 2015. The 

values are re-presented from the 2015 Annual Report and Accounts based on the share price at the vesting date, 18 February 2016, and include the value of dividends accrued on vested shares. 

(4)   Some amounts were paid in Sterling and converted at the average exchange rate of 1.3777 for the year as they are set in U.S. dollars. 

(5)    For 2016, the Lancashire Group delivered solid results in a challenging market. Bonus targets were set at the beginning of 2016 and based on a clear split between Company financial performance and personal 

performance on a 75:25 basis. Company financial performance had two components, absolute financial performance and relative financial performance weighted 60:40 respectively. The absolute component paid out at 
131.25 per cent of target as the RoE was 13.5 per cent against a target level of 11 per cent and the relative component is provisionally cited at 58.33 per cent (with an estimated 50 per cent of maximum pay-out) pending 
the final audited results of peer companies needed in order to calculate the final bonus payable. For the personal element of Executive Directors’ bonus opportunity the pay-out will be 75 per cent of the maximum for 
the CEO and 75 per cent of the maximum for the CFO. For full details of Executive Directors’ bonuses and the associated performance delivered see pages 72 and 73. 25 per cent of Executive Directors’ annual bonus is 
deferred into the long-term incentive scheme without performance conditions, vesting at 33.33 per cent over a three-year period. 

(6)  Annual bonus figures for Alex Maloney and Elaine Whelan for 2015 have been re-presented to reflect final relative performance data which was used to calculate the bonus figures and were finalised after all peer data 
was released in 2016, after the 2015 Directors’ Remuneration Report was published for circulation. For 2015, the relative component had been provisionally stated to pay out at 50 per cent of the maximum, however 
after final results of all peers were released, this element paid out at 158 per cent of target (being 72 per cent of the maximum).  

70 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

71 
71

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ FEES 

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 

Current Non-Executive Directors 

Peter Clarke1 

Michael Dawson2 

Simon Fraser3 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson4 

Robert Lusardi5 

Tom Milligan6 

Former Non-Executive Directors 

Emma Duncan7 

Martin Thomas8 

Fee  
$ 

Other 
$

Total 
$

75 per cent of the 2016 bonus was based on Company performance conditions and the extent to which they were achieved is as follows:  

2016
2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

290,769 
175,000 

28,269 

– 

175,000 

175,000 

175,000 

175,000 

84,808 

– 

175,000 

158,958 

91,538 

175,000 

111,250 

325,000 

–
–

–

–

66,974

–

13,350

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

34,375

100,000

290,769
175,000

28,269

–

241,974

175,000

188,350

175,000

84,808

–

175,000

158,958

91,538

175,000

145,625

425,000

(1)  Peter Clarke was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 9 June 2014 and as LHL Chairman with effect from 4 May 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(2)  Michael Dawson was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 3 November 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(3) Simon Fraser was additionally appointed as a Non-Executive Director of CUL with effect from 29 February 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(4) Samantha Hoe-Richardson was additionally appointed as a Non-Executive Director of LUK with effect from 18 October 2016 and her 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year.  

(5)  Robert Lusardi was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 8 July 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(6) Tom Milligan was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 3 February 2015 and his 2015 fees were proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(7)  Emma Duncan retired from the Board on 8 July 2016 and her 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year.  

(8) Martin Thomas retired from the Board on 4 May 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

2017 ANNUAL BONUS PAYMENTS IN RESPECT OF 2016 PERFORMANCE 
As detailed in the Policy Report, each Executive Director participates in the annual bonus plan, under which performance is measured over  
a single financial year.  

The target value of bonus was 150 per cent of salary for the CEO and CFO respectively, and the maximum payable was two times the target 
value. The RoE is 13.5 per cent. 

Performance Measures 

Absolute RoE 

Relative RoE 

Total 

Weighting 

(of total Company

 element of 75%)

%

60

40

100

(75 per cent of Total Bonus)

Threshold

%

7

50

Target

%

11

N/A

Max

%

19

75

Actual 

performance 

% 

13.5 

58.3 

% payout

131.3 of target

100.0 of target

  118.8 of target payable in respect 

of Company performance

For 2016, the Lancashire Group delivered solid results in a difficult market. The absolute component paid out at 131.3 per cent of target  

as the RoE was 13.5 per cent against a target of 11 per cent. The relative component against the results of peer companies is provisionally 

stated at median performance (100 per cent pay-out of target, and 50 per cent of the maximum) pending the final audited results of peer 

companies needed in order to calculate the final bonus payable. Any changes to the bonus numbers reported will be re-presented in the 2017 

Directors’ Remuneration Report as final numbers. 

PERSONAL PERFORMANCE 

25 per cent of the 2016 bonus was based on performance against clearly defined personal objectives set at the start of the year.  

The table below sets out a summary of the 2016 personal objectives for each Executive Director. 

Executive Director 

Personal Performance 

Alex Maloney 

Effective leadership and management of the senior executive team and Group. 

Elaine Whelan 

Effective leadership and management of the finance function and the Bermuda office. 

Development of the general business strategy. 

Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

Development of the general business strategy. 

Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

The personal targets were broadly common among the Executive Directors, with variances being attributable to the specifics of their 

respective roles and performance targets relating to areas of personal development. 

During the 2016 annual performance reviews of each Executive Director, a performance rating was assigned to determine the level of bonus 

pay-out for which each Executive Director was eligible.  

As expected for a solid performance year in a challenging market, the Executive Directors each achieved a strong performance rating against 

their objectives. For the 2016 performance against personal objectives the following ratings were determined following a process for the 

evaluation of performance of the Executive Directors against the agreed personal targets and discussion and agreement of the outcomes with 

the Chairman and members of the Board. The outcomes are expressed as a percentage of the maximum award for personal performance: 

CEO – 75 per cent, and CFO – 75 per cent.  

A table of performance measures and total 2016 bonus achievement is set out below:  

Executive Director 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

Financial 

performance

 (max % of

 total bonus)

Personal 

performance 

(max % of 

total bonus)

%

75

75

%

25

25

Bonus

% of maximum 

paid in cash

Total1  

 (75 per cent of 

awarded 

bonus value  

total bonus)

$  

$

Value of bonus 

 deferred into RSS 

Value of bonus 

awards (25 per 

cent of total 

bonus)1

$ 

%

63

63

1,510,554 

1,132,915

1,037,248 

777,936

377,639

259,312

(1)  25 per cent of total bonus award will be deferred into RSS awards with one third vesting annually, each year, over a three-year period with the first third becoming exercisable in February 2018, subject to the Company 

not being in a closed period. These awards vest on the relevant dates subject to continued employment only. 

72 
72 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

73 

 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ FEES 

Current Non-Executive Directors 

Peter Clarke1 

Michael Dawson2 

Simon Fraser3 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson4 

Robert Lusardi5 

Tom Milligan6 

Former Non-Executive Directors 

Emma Duncan7 

Martin Thomas8 

Fee  

$ 

Other 

Total 

$

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

290,769 

175,000 

28,269 

– 

175,000 

175,000 

175,000 

175,000 

84,808 

– 

175,000 

158,958 

91,538 

175,000 

111,250 

325,000 

66,974

13,350

$

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

34,375

100,000

290,769

175,000

28,269

241,974

175,000

188,350

175,000

84,808

–

–

175,000

158,958

91,538

175,000

145,625

425,000

(1)  Peter Clarke was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 9 June 2014 and as LHL Chairman with effect from 4 May 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(2)  Michael Dawson was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 3 November 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(3) Simon Fraser was additionally appointed as a Non-Executive Director of CUL with effect from 29 February 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(4) Samantha Hoe-Richardson was additionally appointed as a Non-Executive Director of LUK with effect from 18 October 2016 and her 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year.  

(5)  Robert Lusardi was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 8 July 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(6) Tom Milligan was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 3 February 2015 and his 2015 fees were proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

(7)  Emma Duncan retired from the Board on 8 July 2016 and her 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year.  

(8) Martin Thomas retired from the Board on 4 May 2016 and his 2016 fees are proportionally pro-rated for the year. 

2017 ANNUAL BONUS PAYMENTS IN RESPECT OF 2016 PERFORMANCE 

As detailed in the Policy Report, each Executive Director participates in the annual bonus plan, under which performance is measured over  

a single financial year.  

value. The RoE is 13.5 per cent. 

The target value of bonus was 150 per cent of salary for the CEO and CFO respectively, and the maximum payable was two times the target 

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 
75 per cent of the 2016 bonus was based on Company performance conditions and the extent to which they were achieved is as follows:  

Performance Measures 

Absolute RoE 

Relative RoE 

Total 

Weighting 
(of total Company
 element of 75%)
%

60

40

Threshold
%

7

50

Target
%

11

N/A

Max
%

19

75

Actual 
performance 
% 

13.5 

58.3 

% payout

131.3 of target

100.0 of target

100
(75 per cent of Total Bonus)

  118.8 of target payable in respect 
of Company performance

For 2016, the Lancashire Group delivered solid results in a difficult market. The absolute component paid out at 131.3 per cent of target  
as the RoE was 13.5 per cent against a target of 11 per cent. The relative component against the results of peer companies is provisionally 
stated at median performance (100 per cent pay-out of target, and 50 per cent of the maximum) pending the final audited results of peer 
companies needed in order to calculate the final bonus payable. Any changes to the bonus numbers reported will be re-presented in the 2017 
Directors’ Remuneration Report as final numbers. 

PERSONAL PERFORMANCE 
25 per cent of the 2016 bonus was based on performance against clearly defined personal objectives set at the start of the year.  

The table below sets out a summary of the 2016 personal objectives for each Executive Director. 

Executive Director 

Personal Performance 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

Effective leadership and management of the senior executive team and Group. 
Development of the general business strategy. 
Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

Effective leadership and management of the finance function and the Bermuda office. 
Development of the general business strategy. 
Contribution aligned to the Lancashire Group Values. 

The personal targets were broadly common among the Executive Directors, with variances being attributable to the specifics of their 
respective roles and performance targets relating to areas of personal development. 

During the 2016 annual performance reviews of each Executive Director, a performance rating was assigned to determine the level of bonus 
pay-out for which each Executive Director was eligible.  

As expected for a solid performance year in a challenging market, the Executive Directors each achieved a strong performance rating against 
their objectives. For the 2016 performance against personal objectives the following ratings were determined following a process for the 
evaluation of performance of the Executive Directors against the agreed personal targets and discussion and agreement of the outcomes with 
the Chairman and members of the Board. The outcomes are expressed as a percentage of the maximum award for personal performance: 
CEO – 75 per cent, and CFO – 75 per cent.  

A table of performance measures and total 2016 bonus achievement is set out below:  

Executive Director 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

Financial 
performance
 (max % of
 total bonus)
%

Personal 
performance 
(max % of 
total bonus)
%

Bonus
% of maximum 
awarded 
%

Total1  
bonus value  
$  

Value of bonus 
paid in cash
 (75 per cent of 
total bonus)
$

Value of bonus 
 deferred into RSS 
awards (25 per 
cent of total 
bonus)1
$ 

75

75

25

25

63

63

1,510,554 

1,132,915

1,037,248 

777,936

377,639

259,312

(1)  25 per cent of total bonus award will be deferred into RSS awards with one third vesting annually, each year, over a three-year period with the first third becoming exercisable in February 2018, subject to the Company 

not being in a closed period. These awards vest on the relevant dates subject to continued employment only. 

72 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

73 
73

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

LONG-TERM SHARE AWARDS WITH PERFORMANCE PERIODS ENDING IN THE YEAR – 2014 RSS AWARD 
The 2014 RSS awards were based on a three-year performance period ending on 31 December 2016 and vest following the determination of 
financial results by the Board. The tables below set out the achievement against the performance conditions attached to the award, resulting 
in aggregate vesting of 67.4 per cent, and the actual number of awards vesting (with their estimated value). 

Performance level 

Below threshold 

Threshold 

Stretch or above 

Actual achieved 

TSR  
(relative to a comparator group of 11 companies) 

Average annual RoE  
(over three years in excess of 13-week Treasury Bill Rate) 

(relevant to 25% of the 2014 RSS awards) 

(relevant to 75% of the 2014 RSS awards) 

Performance required

% vesting

Performance required (%)

% vesting

Below median

Median

Upper quartile or above

Below median

0

25

100

0

Below 6

6

15 or above

13.9

0

25

100

89.8

Details of the vesting for each Executive Director, based on the above, are shown in the table below: 

13,976

13,976 

27,953

Executive Director 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan  

Number of 
shares at grant

Number of
 shares to lapse

Number of  
shares to vest 

Dividend accrual 
on vested shares 
value2 
$ 

Value of shares 
 including 
dividend 
 accrual1
$ 

124,333

102,989

40,532

33,573

83,801 

69,416 

287,256

237,947

1,003,429

831,184

(1)  The value of the vested shares is based on the 2014 RSS awards which vest at 67.4 per cent on 16 February 2017 and are based on a three-year performance period that ended on 31 December 2016. The values are 

provisionally based on the average share price of the last quarter of 2016 (being $8.55 based on the exchange rate of 1.2422). The vested awards are subject to the claw-back provision set out on page 65.  

(2)  Dividends accrue on awards at the record date of a dividend payment and upon exercise the cash value of the accrued dividends is paid to the employee on the number of vested awards net of tax required. 

SCHEME INTERESTS AWARDED DURING THE YEAR 
The table below sets out the performance RSS awards that were granted as nil-cost options on 18 February 2016.  

Executive Director 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

Number of awards  
granted during  
the year 

Grant date2

Face value 
of awards 
 granted during 
the year1,3
$ 

18-Feb-2016 

 219,254  

1,940,398 

18-Feb-2016 

 157,104  

1,390,370 

% vesting 
at threshold 
performance

25

25

(1)  The share price on the date of performance awards grant was $8.85 when the RSS share awards were granted as nil-cost options. The awards were based on the share price as at 31 December 2015 (being $9.31, based on 

(2)  The vesting of the RSS performance awards is subject to two performance conditions as follows:  

the exchange rate of 1.4826). 

(2)  These awards are due to vest subject to performance conditions being met at the end of the performance period ending 31 December 2018 and becoming exercisable in the first open period following the release of the 

Company’s 2018 year-end results after the meeting of the Board in February 2019. 

(3) The exercise share price is determined once an award has vested on the basis of the share price on the date an award is exercised. 

•  25 per cent of each award is subject to a performance condition measuring the TSR performance of the 

Company against the TSR performance of a select group of comparator companies (see page 76 for a list 

of comparator companies for each grant year), over a three-year performance period. 25 per cent of this 

part of the award vests for median performance by the Company, rising to 100 per cent vesting of this 

LOSS OF OFFICE PAYMENTS 
There were no loss of office payments during the 2016 year. 

DETAILS OF ALL OUTSTANDING SHARE AWARDS 

Executive Directors. 

In addition to awards made during the 2016 financial year, the table below sets out details of all outstanding RSS awards held by  

PERFORMANCE AND DEFERRED BONUS AWARDS UNDER THE NIL-COST OPTION RESTRICTED SHARE SCHEME (RSS) 

Grant date1 

Exercise 

price

Awards 

held at 

1-Jan-16

Awards 

granted 

Awards 

vested 

Awards  

lapsed  

during the 

during the 

during the 

Awards 

exercised 

during the 

Awards

 held at 

End of 

performance 

year

year

year 

year  

31-Dec-16

period

Alex Maloney, 

Performance RSS2,3 

28-Feb-13 

 131,969 

98,976

32,993 

98,976 

– 31-Dec-15

Group CEO 

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-13 

Elaine Whelan, 

Performance RSS2,3 

28-Feb-13 

 116,087 

87,065

29,022 

87,065 

– 31-Dec-15

567,907

275,478

128,610

32,993 

128,610 

681,782

Performance RSS2,3 

19-Feb-14 

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-14 

Performance RSS2,3 

12-Feb-15

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

20-Mar-15

Performance RSS2,3 

18-Feb-16

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

11-Mar-16

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-13 

Performance RSS2,3 

19-Feb-14 

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-14 

Performance RSS2,3 

12-Feb-15

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

20-Mar-15

Performance RSS2,3 

18-Feb-16

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

11-Mar-16

5,848

124,333

19,620

244,208

41,929

5,040

102,989

15,971

168,149

29,540

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

–

–

219,254

56,224

–

–

157,104

38,607

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

5,848

 – 

9,810 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

5,040

7,985

9,847

– 

 –  

 –  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

5,848 

–

–   124,333 31-Dec-16

9,810 

9,810

– 

244,208 31-Dec-17

219,254 31-Dec-18

56,224

5,040 

–

– 

102,989 31-Dec-16

7,985 

7,986

– 

168,149 31-Dec-17

9,847 

19,693

157,104 31-Dec-18 

38,607

– 

– 

– 

– 

Total 

Group CFO & 

LICL CEO 

Total 

437,776

195,711

109,937

29,022 

109,937 

494,528  

 (1)  The market values of the common shares on the dates of grant were: 

•  28 February 2013 £9.09 

•  5 March 2013 £9.08 

•  19 February 2014 £7.34 

•  5 March 2014 £7.26 

•  12 February 2015 £6.36 

•  20 March 2015 £6.30 

•  18 February 2016 £6.17 

•  11 March 2016 £5.37 

as follows: 

•  2014 – 16 February 2017; 

(3) The vesting dates of the RSS performance awards are subject to being out of a closed period and are  

•  2015 – first open period following the release of the Company’s 2017 year-end results; and 

•  2016 – first open period following the release of the Company’s 2018 year-end results. 

(4) The vesting dates of the RSS Deferred Bonus awards are subject to being out of a closed period and, for 

the 2013 to 2016 Deferred Bonus awards, are as follows: 

•  2013 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

the Company’s year-end results for 2013, 2014 and 2015;  

part of the award for upper quartile performance by the Company or better (with proportionate vesting 

•  2014 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

between these two points). 

the Company’s year-end results for 2014, 2015 and 2016; 

•  The other 75 per cent of each award is subject to a performance condition based on average annual RoE 

•  2015 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

over a three-year performance period. 25 per cent of this part of the award will vest if average annual 

the Company’s year-end results for 2015, 2016 and 2017; and 

RoE over the performance period exceeds the criteria set out in the table on page 76, whilst all of this 

part of the award will vest if the Company’s average RoE is equal to the more stringent criteria set out  

in the table on page 76. Between these two points vesting will take place on a straight-line basis from  

25 per cent to 100 per cent for RoE performance.  

•  2016 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

the Company’s year-end results for 2016, 2017 and 2018. 

74 
74 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

75 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

Performance level 

Below threshold 

Threshold 

Stretch or above 

Actual achieved 

Executive Director 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan  

Executive Director 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

the exchange rate of 1.4826). 

(relative to a comparator group of 11 companies) 

(over three years in excess of 13-week Treasury Bill Rate) 

TSR  

Average annual RoE  

(relevant to 25% of the 2014 RSS awards) 

(relevant to 75% of the 2014 RSS awards) 

Performance required

% vesting

Performance required (%)

% vesting

Below median

Median

Upper quartile or above

Below median

0

25

100

0

Below 6

6

15 or above

13.9

0

25

100

89.8

Details of the vesting for each Executive Director, based on the above, are shown in the table below: 

(1)  The value of the vested shares is based on the 2014 RSS awards which vest at 67.4 per cent on 16 February 2017 and are based on a three-year performance period that ended on 31 December 2016. The values are 

provisionally based on the average share price of the last quarter of 2016 (being $8.55 based on the exchange rate of 1.2422). The vested awards are subject to the claw-back provision set out on page 65.  

(2)  Dividends accrue on awards at the record date of a dividend payment and upon exercise the cash value of the accrued dividends is paid to the employee on the number of vested awards net of tax required. 

SCHEME INTERESTS AWARDED DURING THE YEAR 

The table below sets out the performance RSS awards that were granted as nil-cost options on 18 February 2016.  

Face value 

of awards 

Number of awards  

 granted during 

granted during  

the year1,3

Grant date2

the year 

$ 

% vesting 

at threshold 

performance

18-Feb-2016 

 219,254  

1,940,398 

18-Feb-2016 

 157,104  

1,390,370 

25

25

(2)  These awards are due to vest subject to performance conditions being met at the end of the performance period ending 31 December 2018 and becoming exercisable in the first open period following the release of the 

Company’s 2018 year-end results after the meeting of the Board in February 2019. 

(3) The exercise share price is determined once an award has vested on the basis of the share price on the date an award is exercised. 

LOSS OF OFFICE PAYMENTS 

There were no loss of office payments during the 2016 year. 

LONG-TERM SHARE AWARDS WITH PERFORMANCE PERIODS ENDING IN THE YEAR – 2014 RSS AWARD 

The 2014 RSS awards were based on a three-year performance period ending on 31 December 2016 and vest following the determination of 

financial results by the Board. The tables below set out the achievement against the performance conditions attached to the award, resulting 

in aggregate vesting of 67.4 per cent, and the actual number of awards vesting (with their estimated value). 

DETAILS OF ALL OUTSTANDING SHARE AWARDS 
In addition to awards made during the 2016 financial year, the table below sets out details of all outstanding RSS awards held by  
Executive Directors. 

PERFORMANCE AND DEFERRED BONUS AWARDS UNDER THE NIL-COST OPTION RESTRICTED SHARE SCHEME (RSS) 

Grant date1 

Exercise 
price

Alex Maloney, 
Group CEO 

Performance RSS2,3 

28-Feb-13 

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-13 

Number of 

Number of

shares at grant

 shares to lapse

Number of  

shares to vest 

Dividend accrual 

on vested shares 

value2 

$ 

Value of shares 

 including 

dividend 

 accrual1

$ 

124,333

102,989

40,532

33,573

83,801 

69,416 

287,256

237,947

1,003,429

831,184

Total 

Elaine Whelan, 
Group CFO & 
LICL CEO 

Performance RSS2,3 

19-Feb-14 

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-14 

Performance RSS2,3 

12-Feb-15

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

20-Mar-15

Performance RSS2,3 

18-Feb-16

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

11-Mar-16

Performance RSS2,3 

28-Feb-13 

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-13 

Performance RSS2,3 

19-Feb-14 

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

5-Mar-14 

Performance RSS2,3 

12-Feb-15

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

20-Mar-15

Performance RSS2,3 

18-Feb-16

Deferred Bonus RSS4 

11-Mar-16

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Awards 
held at 
1-Jan-16

 131,969 

5,848

124,333

19,620

244,208

41,929

Awards 
granted 
during the 
year

Awards 
vested 
during the 
year

Awards  
lapsed  
during the 
year 

Awards 
exercised 
during the 
year  

Awards
 held at 
31-Dec-16

End of 
performance 
period

–

–

–

–

–

–

98,976

32,993 

98,976 

– 31-Dec-15

5,848

 – 

9,810 

–

13,976

–

–

– 

 –  

 –  

– 

– 

– 

– 

5,848 

–

–   124,333 31-Dec-16

9,810 

9,810

– 

244,208 31-Dec-17

13,976 

27,953

– 

– 

219,254 31-Dec-18

56,224

–

–

219,254

56,224

567,907

275,478

128,610

32,993 

128,610 

681,782

 116,087 

5,040

102,989

15,971

168,149

29,540

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

157,104

38,607

87,065

29,022 

87,065 

– 31-Dec-15

5,040

–

7,985

–

9,847

–

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

5,040 

–

– 

102,989 31-Dec-16

7,985 

7,986

– 

168,149 31-Dec-17

9,847 

19,693

– 

– 

157,104 31-Dec-18 

38,607

(1)  The share price on the date of performance awards grant was $8.85 when the RSS share awards were granted as nil-cost options. The awards were based on the share price as at 31 December 2015 (being $9.31, based on 

(2)  The vesting of the RSS performance awards is subject to two performance conditions as follows:  

 (1)  The market values of the common shares on the dates of grant were: 

•  28 February 2013 £9.09 

•  5 March 2013 £9.08 

•  19 February 2014 £7.34 

•  5 March 2014 £7.26 

•  12 February 2015 £6.36 

•  20 March 2015 £6.30 

•  18 February 2016 £6.17 

•  11 March 2016 £5.37 

•  25 per cent of each award is subject to a performance condition measuring the TSR performance of the 

Company against the TSR performance of a select group of comparator companies (see page 76 for a list 
of comparator companies for each grant year), over a three-year performance period. 25 per cent of this 
part of the award vests for median performance by the Company, rising to 100 per cent vesting of this 
part of the award for upper quartile performance by the Company or better (with proportionate vesting 
between these two points). 

•  The other 75 per cent of each award is subject to a performance condition based on average annual RoE 
over a three-year performance period. 25 per cent of this part of the award will vest if average annual 
RoE over the performance period exceeds the criteria set out in the table on page 76, whilst all of this 
part of the award will vest if the Company’s average RoE is equal to the more stringent criteria set out  
in the table on page 76. Between these two points vesting will take place on a straight-line basis from  
25 per cent to 100 per cent for RoE performance.  

(3) The vesting dates of the RSS performance awards are subject to being out of a closed period and are  

as follows: 

•  2014 – 16 February 2017; 

•  2015 – first open period following the release of the Company’s 2017 year-end results; and 

•  2016 – first open period following the release of the Company’s 2018 year-end results. 

(4) The vesting dates of the RSS Deferred Bonus awards are subject to being out of a closed period and, for 

the 2013 to 2016 Deferred Bonus awards, are as follows: 

•  2013 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

the Company’s year-end results for 2013, 2014 and 2015;  

•  2014 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

the Company’s year-end results for 2014, 2015 and 2016; 

•  2015 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

the Company’s year-end results for 2015, 2016 and 2017; and 

•  2016 – vest 33.33 per cent over a three-year period at the first open period following the release of  

the Company’s year-end results for 2016, 2017 and 2018. 

Total 

437,776

195,711

109,937

29,022 

109,937 

494,528  

74 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

75 
75

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

TSR TARGETS FOR RSS (25 PER CENT WEIGHTING) 

DIRECTORS’ SHAREHOLDINGS AND SHARE INTERESTS 

2013

2014

2015

2016 

2017

Formal shareholding guidelines were first introduced in 2012 and have subsequently been modified. The guidelines require the CEO and 

100% 

25% 

Nil 

75th percentile

75th percentile 

75th percentile 

75th percentile  

75th percentile 

= median

< median

= median 

< median 

 = median 

< median 

= median  

< median  

= median 

< median 

ROE TARGETS FOR RSS (75 PER CENT WEIGHTING) 

100% 

25% 

Nil 

* Average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends. 

Peer Companies 

Amlin plc1  

Arch Capital Group Limited2, 4 

Argo Group International Holdings, Ltd. 

Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited 

Axis Capital Holdings Limited 

Beazley plc 

Catlin Group Ltd.3 

Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd.4,7 

Everest Re Group, Ltd.5 

The Hanover Insurance Group6 

Hiscox Ltd. 

Montpelier Re Holdings Ltd.7 

Novae Group plc8 

Renaissance Re Holdings Ltd. 

Validus Holdings Ltd. 

2013

2014

2015

2016 

RFRoR + 15%

RFRoR +15% 

RFRoR +15% 

RFRoR +15% 

RFRoR + 6%

RFRoR + 6% 

RFRoR + 6% 

RFRoR + 6%  

< RFRoR + 6%

< RFRoR + 6% 

< RFRoR + 6% 

< RFRoR + 6%  

2017*

13%

 6% 

< 6% 

2013 awards 

2014 awards

2015 awards

2016 awards 

2017 awards

X 

–

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

– 

– 

X 

X 

– 

X 

X 

X

–

X

X

X

X

X

X

–

–

X

X

–

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

– 

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

– 

X 

X 

X 

X 

– 

X 

X 

X 

–

X

X

X

X

X

–

–

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

(1)  Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company acquired Amlin plc. on 1 February 2016. Accordingly, the Committee decided to use Amlin plc as a comparator company up to 30 June 2015 and it was replaced with Everest Re 

Group, Ltd with effect from 1 July 2015. 

(2)  Arch Capital Group Limited was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 October 2016 as a replacement for Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd.  

(3) Catlin Group Ltd. was acquired by the XL Group with effect from 1 May 2015 and so was used as a comparator company up to 31 December 2014 and was replaced by Novae Group plc. 

(4) Sompo Holdings Inc. announced on 5 October 2016 that it intended to acquire Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd (‘Endurance’). The transaction subsequently achieved shareholder approval. Accordingly, the Committee 

decided to use Arch Capital Group Limited as a comparator company with effect from 1 October 2016 as a replacement for Endurance. 

(5)  Everest Re Group, Ltd. was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 July 2015 as a replacement for Amlin plc. 

(6) The Hanover Insurance Group was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 January 2015 as a replacement for Montpelier Re Holdings Ltd. 

(7)  Montpelier Re Holdings Ltd. was acquired by Endurance with effect from 31 July 2015 and so was used as a comparator company up to 31 December 2014 and was replaced by The Hanover Insurance Group.  

(8) Novae Group plc was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 January 2015 as a replacement for Catlin Group Ltd. 

CFO to build and maintain a shareholding in the Company worth two times annual salary as set out in the Policy Report. 

Details of the Directors’ interests in shares are shown in the table below.  

As at 1 January 2016

As at 31 December 2016 

Legally owned

Legally owned

under the RSS

under the RSS

Vested but 

unexercised 

awards under 

other share- 

based plans 

Shareholding

guideline

achieved?

Number of Ordinary Shares 

Subject to 

deferral 

Subject to 

performance 

conditions 

93,987

66,286

587,795

428,242

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

382,008

287,169

–

N/A

1,000

3,947

N/A

1,000

513,512

428,976

14,000

–

1,000

3,947

3,000

1,000

–

6,950

N/A

N/A

Total

1,195,294

923,504

14,000

–

1,000

3,947

3,000

1,000

– 

– 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A

N/A

Yes

Yes

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Directors 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

Peter Clarke 

Michael Dawson 

Simon Fraser 

Robert Lusardi 

Tom Milligan 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson  

Former Non-Executive Directors 

Emma Duncan 

Martin Thomas  

PERFORMANCE GRAPH  

Note: For the purpose of the shareholding guideline, legally owned shares are counted together with the net of tax value of deferred bonus and vested (but unexercised) long-term incentive awards. 

The following graph shows the Company’s performance, measured by TSR, compared with the performance of the FTSE 250 Index.  

The Company’s common shares commenced trading on the main market of the LSE on 16 March 2009 and the Company joined the FTSE 

250 Index on 22 June 2009 and is currently a constituent of this. 

76 
76 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

77 

This graph shows the value, by 31 December 2016, of £100 invested in LHL on 31 December 2008 compared with the value of £100 invested 

in the FTSE 250 Index. The other points plotted are the values at intervening financial year ends. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

TSR TARGETS FOR RSS (25 PER CENT WEIGHTING) 

ROE TARGETS FOR RSS (75 PER CENT WEIGHTING) 

100% 

25% 

Nil 

100% 

25% 

Nil 

* Average annual growth in FCBVS plus accrued dividends. 

Peer Companies 

Amlin plc1  

Arch Capital Group Limited2, 4 

Argo Group International Holdings, Ltd. 

Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited 

Axis Capital Holdings Limited 

Beazley plc 

Catlin Group Ltd.3 

Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd.4,7 

Everest Re Group, Ltd.5 

The Hanover Insurance Group6 

Hiscox Ltd. 

Montpelier Re Holdings Ltd.7 

Novae Group plc8 

Renaissance Re Holdings Ltd. 

Validus Holdings Ltd. 

Group, Ltd with effect from 1 July 2015. 

2013

2014

2015

2016 

2017

75th percentile

75th percentile 

75th percentile 

75th percentile  

75th percentile 

= median

< median

= median 

< median 

 = median 

< median 

= median  

< median  

= median 

< median 

2013

2014

2015

2016 

RFRoR + 15%

RFRoR +15% 

RFRoR +15% 

RFRoR +15% 

RFRoR + 6%

RFRoR + 6% 

RFRoR + 6% 

RFRoR + 6%  

< RFRoR + 6%

< RFRoR + 6% 

< RFRoR + 6% 

< RFRoR + 6%  

2017*

13%

 6% 

< 6% 

2013 awards 

2014 awards

2015 awards

2016 awards 

2017 awards

X 

–

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

– 

– 

X 

X 

– 

X 

X 

X

–

X

X

X

X

X

X

–

–

X

X

–

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

– 

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

– 

X 

X 

X 

X 

– 

X 

X 

X 

–

X

X

X

X

X

–

–

X

X

X

–

X

X

X

(1)  Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company acquired Amlin plc. on 1 February 2016. Accordingly, the Committee decided to use Amlin plc as a comparator company up to 30 June 2015 and it was replaced with Everest Re 

(2)  Arch Capital Group Limited was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 October 2016 as a replacement for Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd.  

(3) Catlin Group Ltd. was acquired by the XL Group with effect from 1 May 2015 and so was used as a comparator company up to 31 December 2014 and was replaced by Novae Group plc. 

(4) Sompo Holdings Inc. announced on 5 October 2016 that it intended to acquire Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd (‘Endurance’). The transaction subsequently achieved shareholder approval. Accordingly, the Committee 

decided to use Arch Capital Group Limited as a comparator company with effect from 1 October 2016 as a replacement for Endurance. 

(5)  Everest Re Group, Ltd. was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 July 2015 as a replacement for Amlin plc. 

(6) The Hanover Insurance Group was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 January 2015 as a replacement for Montpelier Re Holdings Ltd. 

(7)  Montpelier Re Holdings Ltd. was acquired by Endurance with effect from 31 July 2015 and so was used as a comparator company up to 31 December 2014 and was replaced by The Hanover Insurance Group.  

(8) Novae Group plc was added to the peer group of companies with effect from 1 January 2015 as a replacement for Catlin Group Ltd. 

DIRECTORS’ SHAREHOLDINGS AND SHARE INTERESTS 
Formal shareholding guidelines were first introduced in 2012 and have subsequently been modified. The guidelines require the CEO and 
CFO to build and maintain a shareholding in the Company worth two times annual salary as set out in the Policy Report. 

Details of the Directors’ interests in shares are shown in the table below.  

Directors 

Alex Maloney 

Elaine Whelan 

Peter Clarke 

Michael Dawson 

Simon Fraser 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson  

Robert Lusardi 

Tom Milligan 

Former Non-Executive Directors 

Emma Duncan 

Martin Thomas  

As at 1 January 2016

As at 31 December 2016 

Number of Ordinary Shares 

Legally owned

Legally owned

382,008

287,169

–

N/A

1,000

3,947

N/A

1,000

513,512

428,976

14,000

–

1,000

3,947

3,000

1,000

–

6,950

N/A

N/A

Subject to 
deferral 
under the RSS

Subject to 
performance 
conditions 
under the RSS

93,987

66,286

587,795

428,242

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Vested but 
unexercised 
awards under 
other share- 
based plans 

– 

– 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

N/A 

Total

1,195,294

923,504

14,000

–

1,000

3,947

3,000

1,000

N/A 

N/A 

N/A

N/A

Shareholding
guideline
achieved?

Yes

Yes

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Note: For the purpose of the shareholding guideline, legally owned shares are counted together with the net of tax value of deferred bonus and vested (but unexercised) long-term incentive awards. 

PERFORMANCE GRAPH  
The following graph shows the Company’s performance, measured by TSR, compared with the performance of the FTSE 250 Index.  
The Company’s common shares commenced trading on the main market of the LSE on 16 March 2009 and the Company joined the FTSE 
250 Index on 22 June 2009 and is currently a constituent of this. 

TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN

£

500

450

400

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Lancashire Holdings

FTSE 250 Index

Source: Datastream (Thomson Reuters)

This graph shows the value, by 31 December 2016, of £100 invested in LHL on 31 December 2008 compared with the value of £100 invested 
in the FTSE 250 Index. The other points plotted are the values at intervening financial year ends. 

76 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

77 
77

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

TOTAL REMUNERATION HISTORY FOR CEO 
The table below sets out the total single figure remuneration for the CEOs over the last eight years with the annual bonus paid as  
a percentage of the maximum and the percentage of long-term share awards vesting in each year. 

COMMITTEE MEMBERS, ATTENDEES AND ADVICE 

The Remuneration Committee comprised the following members during the year and to the date of this report (all of whom are 

independent Non-Executive Directors, with the exception of Peter Clarke who is the Chairman of the Board): 

2009 

2010 

2011

2012

2013

Richard Brindle 
20141

Alex Maloney  
20142 

2015

2016

Remuneration Committee Members 

Position 

Comments 

Total remuneration ($000s) 

7,244 

9,945 

9,623

10,460

10,175

10,072 

2,405  

3,8534

3,425

Annual bonus (%) 

LTI vesting (%) 

68 

N/A 

94 

99.6 

73

100

73

99

80

100

80 

613

73  

50  

724

75

63

67

(1)  Richard Brindle was the CEO from 2005 until he retired from the Group and as a Director on 30 April 2014.  

(2)  Alex Maloney was appointed CEO effective 1 May 2014, after the retirement of Mr Brindle. For the purposes of this table his numbers have been pro-rated to account for only his time in office as CEO for 2014.  

(3) Mr Brindle was afforded good leaver status and all RSS award interests were vested upon his departure, using estimated TSR and RoE values at the time of his retirement. The amounts in the table above reflect all awards 

which vested in 2014. Further particulars of the vesting were reported in the Group’s 2014 Annual Report and Accounts. 

(4) Alex Maloney’s 2015 total remuneration and annual bonus percentage have been re-presented in the above table to reflect changes made after the publication of the 2015 Annual Report and Accounts. These changes  
are primarily due to the disclosed relative RoE performance which impacted his annual bonus figure for 2015 and the re-presentation of his LTI award vesting and dividend accrual value at the vesting date, as disclosed  
on page 71.  

The table above shows the total remuneration figure for the former CEO during each of the relevant financial years; the current CEO is 
reflected since his appointment to the position on 1 May 2014. The total remuneration figure includes the annual bonus and LTI awards 
which vested based on performance in those years. The annual bonus and LTI percentages show the pay-out for each year as a percentage  
of the maximum. 

PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN CEO REMUNERATION 
The following table sets out the percentage change in the aggregate value of salary, benefits and bonus for the CEO from the preceding year 
and the average percentage change in respect of the employees of the Group taken as a whole. 

Base salary 

Benefits 

Bonus 

Year on 
 year change 
CEO2
% 

Average year 
on year change 
employees1,3
% 

5

4

-9

10

9

12

(1)  Employee numbers were calculated on a per permanent employee headcount basis for the years ending 31 December 2016 and 31 December 2015, adjusted for any joiners and leavers during this period. 

(2)  The underlying salary increase from 2015 to 2016 for the CEO was 3 per cent. However some amounts were paid in Sterling and converted at the average exchange rate of 1.3777 for the year, which has resulted in the 

overall 5 per cent base salary year on year change above. 

(3) The underlying salary increase from 2015 to 2016 for the general workforce population was 3 per cent. The 10 per cent increase reflects staff promotions and other adjustments made during the year. 

RELATIVE IMPORTANCE OF THE SPEND ON PAY 
The following table sets out the percentage change in dividends and overall spend on pay in the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to 
the year ended 31 December 2015.  

Employee remuneration costs 

Dividends 

2016  
$m 

72.1 

178.9 

2015 
$m

Percentage change
%

80.1

317.5

-10

-44

Simon Fraser 

Peter Clarke 

Robert Lusardi 

Emma Duncan 

LHL Remuneration Committee Chairman  Attended 4 of a potential maximum meetings of 4 in 2016  

Member from 4 November 2014 

Attended 4 of a potential maximum meetings of 4 in 2016 

Michael Dawson 

Member from 3 November 2016 

Attended 0 of a potential maximum meetings of 0 in 2016 

Member from 8 July 2016 

Attended 2 of a potential maximum meetings of 2 in 2016 

Member from 5 November 2010 

Attended 2 of a potential maximum meetings of 2 in 2016 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson  Member on an interim basis from 4 May 

Attended 2 of a potential maximum meetings of 2 in 2016 

Retired on 8 July 2016 

2016 to 3 November 2016 

The Remuneration Committee’s responsibilities are contained in its Terms of Reference, a copy of which is available on the Company’s 

website. These responsibilities include determining the framework for the remuneration, including pension arrangements, for all Executive 

Directors, the Chairman and senior executives. The Committee is also responsible for approving employment contracts for senior executives. 

REMUNERATION COMMITTEE ADVISER 

The Remuneration Committee is advised by NBS, a trading name of Aon Hewitt, being a subsidiary of Aon plc. NBS was appointed by the 

Remuneration Committee in 2007. NBS has discussions with the Remuneration Committee Chairman regularly on Committee process and 

topics which are of particular relevance to the Company.  

Aon Benfield (which is part of Aon but is a separate business division to Aon Hewitt) provides reinsurance broking services to the Group.  

The primary role of NBS is to provide independent and objective advice and support to the Committee’s Chairman and members. In order 

to manage any possible conflict of interest, NBS operates as a distinct business within the Aon Group and there is a robust separation between 

the business activities and management of NBS and all other parts of Aon Hewitt and the wider Aon Group. The Committee is satisfied that 

the advice that it receives is objective and independent. NBS is also a signatory to the Remuneration Consultants Group (‘RCG’) Code  

of Conduct which sets out guidelines for managing conflicts of interest, and has confirmed to the Committee its compliance with the  

The total fees paid to NBS in respect of its services to the Committee for the year ended 31 December 2016 were $159,473 (2015 – $132,330). 

RCG Code.  

Fees are predominantly charged on a ‘time spent’ basis.  

ENGAGEMENT WITH SHAREHOLDERS 

Details of votes cast for and against the resolution to approve last year’s Remuneration Report are shown below along with the votes to 

approve the outgoing policy which have been restated below; any matters discussed with shareholders during the year are provided in  

the Implementation of Remuneration Policy for 2017 section of the report starting on page 69.  

Vote to approve 2015 Annual Report  

2014 AGM Vote to approve outgoing 

on Remuneration 

Remuneration Policy 

Total number 

of votes

% of 

 votes cast 

Total number 

of votes

% of

 votes cast

139,168,062

5,670,010

96.1 

132,963,855

3.9 

14,530,236

144,838,072

100.0 

147,494,091

4,450,849

554,388

90.1

9.9

100.0

Approved by the Board of Directors and signed on behalf of the Board 

For  

Against 

Total 

Abstentions 

Simon Fraser 

LHL Remuneration Committee Chairman 

15 February 2017 

78 
78 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

79 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED 

2009 

2010 

2011

2012

2013

20141

20142 

2015

Total remuneration ($000s) 

7,244 

9,945 

9,623

10,460

10,175

10,072 

2,405  

3,8534

Annual bonus (%) 

LTI vesting (%) 

68 

N/A 

94 

99.6 

73

100

73

99

80

100

80 

613

73  

50  

724

75

2016

3,425

63

67

(1)  Richard Brindle was the CEO from 2005 until he retired from the Group and as a Director on 30 April 2014.  

(2)  Alex Maloney was appointed CEO effective 1 May 2014, after the retirement of Mr Brindle. For the purposes of this table his numbers have been pro-rated to account for only his time in office as CEO for 2014.  

(3) Mr Brindle was afforded good leaver status and all RSS award interests were vested upon his departure, using estimated TSR and RoE values at the time of his retirement. The amounts in the table above reflect all awards 

which vested in 2014. Further particulars of the vesting were reported in the Group’s 2014 Annual Report and Accounts. 

(4) Alex Maloney’s 2015 total remuneration and annual bonus percentage have been re-presented in the above table to reflect changes made after the publication of the 2015 Annual Report and Accounts. These changes  

are primarily due to the disclosed relative RoE performance which impacted his annual bonus figure for 2015 and the re-presentation of his LTI award vesting and dividend accrual value at the vesting date, as disclosed  

The table above shows the total remuneration figure for the former CEO during each of the relevant financial years; the current CEO is 

reflected since his appointment to the position on 1 May 2014. The total remuneration figure includes the annual bonus and LTI awards 

which vested based on performance in those years. The annual bonus and LTI percentages show the pay-out for each year as a percentage  

PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN CEO REMUNERATION 

The following table sets out the percentage change in the aggregate value of salary, benefits and bonus for the CEO from the preceding year 

and the average percentage change in respect of the employees of the Group taken as a whole. 

(1)  Employee numbers were calculated on a per permanent employee headcount basis for the years ending 31 December 2016 and 31 December 2015, adjusted for any joiners and leavers during this period. 

(2)  The underlying salary increase from 2015 to 2016 for the CEO was 3 per cent. However some amounts were paid in Sterling and converted at the average exchange rate of 1.3777 for the year, which has resulted in the 

overall 5 per cent base salary year on year change above. 

(3) The underlying salary increase from 2015 to 2016 for the general workforce population was 3 per cent. The 10 per cent increase reflects staff promotions and other adjustments made during the year. 

The following table sets out the percentage change in dividends and overall spend on pay in the year ended 31 December 2016 compared to 

RELATIVE IMPORTANCE OF THE SPEND ON PAY 

the year ended 31 December 2015.  

Year on 

 year change 

CEO2

% 

Average year 

on year change 

employees1,3

5

4

-9

% 

10

9

12

%

-10

-44

Percentage change

2016  

$m 

72.1 

178.9 

2015 

$m

80.1

317.5

on page 71.  

of the maximum. 

Base salary 

Benefits 

Bonus 

Employee remuneration costs 

Dividends 

TOTAL REMUNERATION HISTORY FOR CEO 

The table below sets out the total single figure remuneration for the CEOs over the last eight years with the annual bonus paid as  

a percentage of the maximum and the percentage of long-term share awards vesting in each year. 

COMMITTEE MEMBERS, ATTENDEES AND ADVICE 
The Remuneration Committee comprised the following members during the year and to the date of this report (all of whom are 
independent Non-Executive Directors, with the exception of Peter Clarke who is the Chairman of the Board): 

Richard Brindle 

Alex Maloney  

Remuneration Committee Members 

Position 

Comments 

Simon Fraser 

Peter Clarke 

LHL Remuneration Committee Chairman  Attended 4 of a potential maximum meetings of 4 in 2016  

Member from 4 November 2014 

Attended 4 of a potential maximum meetings of 4 in 2016 

Michael Dawson 

Member from 3 November 2016 

Attended 0 of a potential maximum meetings of 0 in 2016 

Robert Lusardi 

Emma Duncan 

Member from 8 July 2016 

Attended 2 of a potential maximum meetings of 2 in 2016 

Member from 5 November 2010 
Retired on 8 July 2016 

Attended 2 of a potential maximum meetings of 2 in 2016 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson  Member on an interim basis from 4 May 

Attended 2 of a potential maximum meetings of 2 in 2016 

2016 to 3 November 2016 

The Remuneration Committee’s responsibilities are contained in its Terms of Reference, a copy of which is available on the Company’s 
website. These responsibilities include determining the framework for the remuneration, including pension arrangements, for all Executive 
Directors, the Chairman and senior executives. The Committee is also responsible for approving employment contracts for senior executives. 

REMUNERATION COMMITTEE ADVISER 
The Remuneration Committee is advised by NBS, a trading name of Aon Hewitt, being a subsidiary of Aon plc. NBS was appointed by the 
Remuneration Committee in 2007. NBS has discussions with the Remuneration Committee Chairman regularly on Committee process and 
topics which are of particular relevance to the Company.  

Aon Benfield (which is part of Aon but is a separate business division to Aon Hewitt) provides reinsurance broking services to the Group.  

The primary role of NBS is to provide independent and objective advice and support to the Committee’s Chairman and members. In order 
to manage any possible conflict of interest, NBS operates as a distinct business within the Aon Group and there is a robust separation between 
the business activities and management of NBS and all other parts of Aon Hewitt and the wider Aon Group. The Committee is satisfied that 
the advice that it receives is objective and independent. NBS is also a signatory to the Remuneration Consultants Group (‘RCG’) Code  
of Conduct which sets out guidelines for managing conflicts of interest, and has confirmed to the Committee its compliance with the  
RCG Code.  

The total fees paid to NBS in respect of its services to the Committee for the year ended 31 December 2016 were $159,473 (2015 – $132,330). 
Fees are predominantly charged on a ‘time spent’ basis.  

ENGAGEMENT WITH SHAREHOLDERS 
Details of votes cast for and against the resolution to approve last year’s Remuneration Report are shown below along with the votes to 
approve the outgoing policy which have been restated below; any matters discussed with shareholders during the year are provided in  
the Implementation of Remuneration Policy for 2017 section of the report starting on page 69.  

Vote to approve 2015 Annual Report  
on Remuneration 

2014 AGM Vote to approve outgoing 
Remuneration Policy 

Total number 
of votes

% of 
 votes cast 

Total number 
of votes

% of
 votes cast

139,168,062

5,670,010

96.1 

132,963,855

3.9 

14,530,236

144,838,072

100.0 

147,494,091

4,450,849

554,388

90.1

9.9

100.0

For  

Against 

Total 

Abstentions 

Approved by the Board of Directors and signed on behalf of the Board 

Simon Fraser 
LHL Remuneration Committee Chairman 

15 February 2017 

78 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

79 
79

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT 

OVERVIEW OF THE GROUP 
Lancashire Holdings Limited is a Bermuda incorporated company (Registered Company No. 37415) with operating subsidiaries in Bermuda 
and London, and two Syndicates at Lloyd’s.  

The Company’s common shares were admitted to trading on AIM in December 2005 and were subsequently moved up to the Official List 
and to trading on the main market of the LSE on 16 March 2009. The shares have been included in the FTSE 250 Index since 22 June 2009. 

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES 
The Company’s principal activity, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, is the provision of global specialty insurance and reinsurance 
products. On 7 November 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of CCL, an established Lloyd’s insurance group, and in June 2013 
established Kinesis, a third-party capital and underwriting management facility, to complement the Group’s longstanding specialty insurance 
activities. An analysis of the Group’s business performance can be found in the Business review on pages 24 to 30. 

DIVIDENDS  
For the year ended 31 December 2016, the following dividends were declared:  

•  an interim dividend of $0.05 per common share was declared on 26 July 2016 and paid on 31 August 2016 in pounds sterling at the 

pound/U.S. dollar exchange rate of 1.3159 or £0.0380 per common share;  

•  a special dividend of $0.75 per common share was declared on 2 November 2016 and paid on 14 December 2016 in pounds sterling at the 

pound/U.S. dollar exchange rate of 1.2417 or £0.6040 per common share; and 

•  a final dividend of $0.10 per common share was declared on 15 February 2017 to be paid on 22 March 2017 in pounds sterling at the 

pound/U.S. dollar exchange rate on the record date of 24 February 2017 or approximately £0.08 per common share.  

DIVIDEND POLICY 
The Group intends to maintain a strong balance sheet at all times, while generating an attractive risk-adjusted total return for shareholders. 
We actively manage capital to achieve those aims. Capital management is expected to include the payment of a sustainable annual (interim 
and final) dividend, supplemented by special dividends from time to time. Dividends will be linked to past performance and future prospects. 

Under most scenarios, the annual dividend is not expected to reduce from one year to the next. Special dividends are expected to vary 
substantially in size and in timing. The Board may cancel the payment of any dividend between declaration and payment for purposes of 
compliance with regulatory requirements or for exceptional business reasons. 

CURRENT DIRECTORS 
•  Peter Clarke (Non-Executive Chairman) (appointed Chairman effective 4 May 2016) 
•  Michael Dawson (Non-Executive Director) (appointed effective 3 November 2016) 
•  Simon Fraser (Senior Independent Non-Executive Director) 
•  Samantha Hoe-Richardson (Non-Executive Director) 
•  Robert Lusardi (Non-Executive Director) (appointed effective 8 July 2016) 
•  Alex Maloney (Chief Executive Officer) 
•  Tom Milligan (Non-Executive Director) 
•  Elaine Whelan (Chief Financial Officer) 

DIRECTORS WHO RETIRED DURING THE YEAR 
•  Martin Thomas (Non-Executive Chairman) (retired effective 4 May 2016) 
•  Emma Duncan (Non-Executive Director) (retired effective 8 July 2016) 

82 
80 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT 

The Company’s common shares were admitted to trading on AIM in December 2005 and were subsequently moved up to the Official List 

and to trading on the main market of the LSE on 16 March 2009. The shares have been included in the FTSE 250 Index since 22 June 2009. 

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES 

The Company’s principal activity, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, is the provision of global specialty insurance and reinsurance 

products. On 7 November 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of CCL, an established Lloyd’s insurance group, and in June 2013 

established Kinesis, a third-party capital and underwriting management facility, to complement the Group’s longstanding specialty insurance 

activities. An analysis of the Group’s business performance can be found in the Business review on pages 24 to 30. 

DIVIDENDS  

For the year ended 31 December 2016, the following dividends were declared:  

•  an interim dividend of $0.05 per common share was declared on 26 July 2016 and paid on 31 August 2016 in pounds sterling at the 

pound/U.S. dollar exchange rate of 1.3159 or £0.0380 per common share;  

•  a special dividend of $0.75 per common share was declared on 2 November 2016 and paid on 14 December 2016 in pounds sterling at the 

pound/U.S. dollar exchange rate of 1.2417 or £0.6040 per common share; and 

•  a final dividend of $0.10 per common share was declared on 15 February 2017 to be paid on 22 March 2017 in pounds sterling at the 

pound/U.S. dollar exchange rate on the record date of 24 February 2017 or approximately £0.08 per common share.  

DIVIDEND POLICY 

The Group intends to maintain a strong balance sheet at all times, while generating an attractive risk-adjusted total return for shareholders. 

We actively manage capital to achieve those aims. Capital management is expected to include the payment of a sustainable annual (interim 

and final) dividend, supplemented by special dividends from time to time. Dividends will be linked to past performance and future prospects. 

Under most scenarios, the annual dividend is not expected to reduce from one year to the next. Special dividends are expected to vary 

substantially in size and in timing. The Board may cancel the payment of any dividend between declaration and payment for purposes of 

compliance with regulatory requirements or for exceptional business reasons. 

CURRENT DIRECTORS 

•  Peter Clarke (Non-Executive Chairman) (appointed Chairman effective 4 May 2016) 

•  Michael Dawson (Non-Executive Director) (appointed effective 3 November 2016) 

•  Simon Fraser (Senior Independent Non-Executive Director) 

•  Samantha Hoe-Richardson (Non-Executive Director) 

•  Robert Lusardi (Non-Executive Director) (appointed effective 8 July 2016) 

•  Alex Maloney (Chief Executive Officer) 

•  Tom Milligan (Non-Executive Director) 

•  Elaine Whelan (Chief Financial Officer) 

DIRECTORS WHO RETIRED DURING THE YEAR 

•  Martin Thomas (Non-Executive Chairman) (retired effective 4 May 2016) 

•  Emma Duncan (Non-Executive Director) (retired effective 8 July 2016) 

82 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

OVERVIEW OF THE GROUP 

and London, and two Syndicates at Lloyd’s.  

Lancashire Holdings Limited is a Bermuda incorporated company (Registered Company No. 37415) with operating subsidiaries in Bermuda 

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS 
The Directors’ beneficial interests in the Company’s common shares as at 31 December 2016 and 2015 including interests held by family 
members were as follows: 

Directors 

Peter Clarke1 

Michael Dawson 

Simon Fraser 

Samantha Hoe-Richardson 

Robert Lusardi2 

Alex Maloney3 

Tom Milligan 

Elaine Whelan4 

Former Non-Executive Directors 

Emma Duncan 

Martin Thomas 

Common shares 
held as at
31 December 2016

Common shares 
held as at 
31 December 2015

14,000

–

1,000

3,947

3,000

513,512

1,000

428,976

–

–

1,000

3,947

–

382,008

1,000

287,169

N/A

N/A

–

6,950

There have been no changes in Directors’ shareholdings between the end of the financial year and the date of this Report. 

(1)  Peter Clarke conducted the following transactions in the Company’s shares during 2016: 

•  1 March – purchase of 14,000 shares at a price of £5.52 costing £77,241. 

(2)  Robert Lusardi conducted the following transactions in the Company’s shares during 2016: 

•  30 December – purchase of 3,000 shares at a price of $8.60 costing $25,800. 

(3) Includes 100,000 shares owned by his spouse, Amanda Maloney. Alex Maloney conducted the following transactions in the Company’s shares during 2016: 

•  1 March – purchase of 44,553 shares at a price of £5.60 costing £249,497. 
•  5 May – purchase of 18,955 shares at a price of £5.27 costing £99,798. 
•  13 September – exercise of 98,976 RSS awards and 29,634 deferred bonus RSS awards and related sale of 60,614 shares to cover tax liabilities, at a price of £6.50 realising £394,032. 

(4)  Includes 11,590 shares owned by her spouse, Kilian Whelan. Elaine Whelan conducted the following transactions in the Company’s shares during 2016: 

•  1 March – purchase of 29,500 shares at a price of £5.61 costing £165,569. 
•  3 March – purchase of 8,990 shares at a price of £5.55 costing £49,912 by Kilian Whelan. 
•  9 May – exercise of 87,065 RSS awards and 22,872 deferred bonus RSS awards and related sale of 6,620 shares on 9 and 10 May to cover tax liabilities, at a price of £5.55 realising £36,745. 

TRANSACTIONS IN OWN SHARES 
The Company did not repurchase any of its own common shares during 2016 or 2015. 

The Group’s current repurchase programme has 20,134,191 common shares remaining to be purchased as at 31 December 2016 
(approximately $172.7 million at the 31 December 2016 share price). The purpose of the Company’s repurchase programme is to acquire 
shares to use in the future towards satisfying its obligations under its RSS awards. Further details of the share repurchase authority and 
programme are set out in note 18 to the consolidated financial statements on page 150. The repurchase programme is subject to renewal  
at the 2017 AGM in an amount of up to 10 per cent of the then issued common share capital. 

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION 
Details of the Directors’ remuneration are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 61 to 79. 

SUBSTANTIAL SHAREHOLDERS 
As at 15 February 2017, the Company was aware of the following interests of 3 per cent or more in the Company’s issued share capital: 

Name 

Invesco Limited 

Woodford Investment Management Ltd 

Setanta Asset Management Limited 

Vidacos Nominees Ltd 

BlackRock, Inc. 

Dimensional Fund Advisors LP 

Franklin Mutual Advisers, LLC 

Troy Asset Management Limited 

Number of shares as 
at 15 February 2017

% of shares
 in issue

39,964,120

31,558,488

15,223,868

10,342,300

8,976,004

8,097.268

7,856,956

6,842,393

20.0

15.8

7.6

5.2

4.5

4.1

3.9

3.4

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

83 
81

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE – COMPLIANCE STATEMENT 
The Company’s compliance with the Code is summarised in the Corporate Governance section of this Report on pages 47 to 49.  

The Company confirms, in accordance with the principle of ‘comply or explain’, that there are no areas of material non-compliance with  
the Code. 

DONATIONS 
In June 2016 the Company made a cash donation of $300,110 to the Lancashire Foundation. 

The Foundation owns 330,713 common shares in the Company and during the 2016 calendar year received dividends of £236,010 declared 
on those shares. 

Lancashire established the Lancashire Foundation as a Bermuda charitable trust in 2007, with the aim of creating a trust for the benefit  
of charitable causes in Bermuda, the UK and worldwide. During 2012, the assets of the Lancashire Foundation were transferred to the 
Lancashire Foundation charitable trust established in England and Wales and registered with the Charity Commission. The Lancashire 
Foundation’s trustees are two senior employees and a subsidiary Non-Executive Director. The Trustees make donations following 
recommendations made by the Company’s Donations Committee consisting of some of the Group’s employees.  

A summary of the work of the Lancashire Foundation during 2016 can be found in the Corporate Responsibility section on pages 36 to 41. 

The Group did not make any political donations or expenditure during 2016 or 2015. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY 
The Group considers the health and safety of its employees to be a management responsibility equal to that of any other function.  

The Group operates in compliance with health and safety legislative requirements in Bermuda and the UK. 

GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 
The Group’s greenhouse gas emissions are detailed in the Corporate Responsibility section on page 39. 

EMPLOYEES 
The Group is an equal opportunity employer, and does not tolerate unfair discrimination of any kind in any area of employment or 
corporate life. The Group believes that education and training for employees is a continuous process and employees are encouraged to 
discuss training needs with their managers. The Group’s health and safety, equal opportunities, training and other policies are available to  
all employees in the staff handbook which is available on the Group’s intranet. 

CREDITOR PAYMENT POLICY 
The Group aims to pay all creditors promptly and in accordance with contractual and legal obligations. 

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK EXPOSURES  
Information regarding the Group’s risk exposures is included in the ERM report on pages 31 to 33 and in the risk disclosures section  
on pages 101 to 128 of the consolidated financial statements. The Group’s use of derivative financial instruments can be found on  
pages 116 to 118. 

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS 
The Group’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted under IFRS as 
adopted by the European Union. Where IFRS is silent, as it is in respect of certain aspects relating to the measurement of insurance products, 
the IFRS framework allows reference to another comprehensive body of accounting principles. In such instances, the Group’s management 
determines appropriate measurement bases, to provide the most useful information to users of the consolidated financial statements, using 
their judgement and considering U.S. GAAP. 

84 
82 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

 
 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE – COMPLIANCE STATEMENT 

The Company’s compliance with the Code is summarised in the Corporate Governance section of this Report on pages 47 to 49.  

The Company confirms, in accordance with the principle of ‘comply or explain’, that there are no areas of material non-compliance with  

the Code. 

DONATIONS 

on those shares. 

In June 2016 the Company made a cash donation of $300,110 to the Lancashire Foundation. 

The Foundation owns 330,713 common shares in the Company and during the 2016 calendar year received dividends of £236,010 declared 

Lancashire established the Lancashire Foundation as a Bermuda charitable trust in 2007, with the aim of creating a trust for the benefit  

of charitable causes in Bermuda, the UK and worldwide. During 2012, the assets of the Lancashire Foundation were transferred to the 

Lancashire Foundation charitable trust established in England and Wales and registered with the Charity Commission. The Lancashire 

Foundation’s trustees are two senior employees and a subsidiary Non-Executive Director. The Trustees make donations following 

recommendations made by the Company’s Donations Committee consisting of some of the Group’s employees.  

A summary of the work of the Lancashire Foundation during 2016 can be found in the Corporate Responsibility section on pages 36 to 41. 

The Group did not make any political donations or expenditure during 2016 or 2015. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY 

The Group considers the health and safety of its employees to be a management responsibility equal to that of any other function.  

The Group operates in compliance with health and safety legislative requirements in Bermuda and the UK. 

GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 

The Group’s greenhouse gas emissions are detailed in the Corporate Responsibility section on page 39. 

EMPLOYEES 

The Group is an equal opportunity employer, and does not tolerate unfair discrimination of any kind in any area of employment or 

corporate life. The Group believes that education and training for employees is a continuous process and employees are encouraged to 

discuss training needs with their managers. The Group’s health and safety, equal opportunities, training and other policies are available to  

all employees in the staff handbook which is available on the Group’s intranet. 

CREDITOR PAYMENT POLICY 

The Group aims to pay all creditors promptly and in accordance with contractual and legal obligations. 

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK EXPOSURES  

Information regarding the Group’s risk exposures is included in the ERM report on pages 31 to 33 and in the risk disclosures section  

on pages 101 to 128 of the consolidated financial statements. The Group’s use of derivative financial instruments can be found on  

pages 116 to 118. 

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS 

The Group’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted under IFRS as 

adopted by the European Union. Where IFRS is silent, as it is in respect of certain aspects relating to the measurement of insurance products, 

the IFRS framework allows reference to another comprehensive body of accounting principles. In such instances, the Group’s management 

determines appropriate measurement bases, to provide the most useful information to users of the consolidated financial statements, using 

their judgement and considering U.S. GAAP. 

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 
The notice of the 2017 AGM, to be held on 3 May 2017 at the Company’s head office, 29th Floor, 20 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 3BY, 
UK, is contained in a separate circular to shareholders which is made available to shareholders at the same time as this Annual Report and 
Accounts. The notice of the AGM is also available on the Company’s website. 

ELECTRONIC AND WEB COMMUNICATIONS 
Provisions of the Bermuda Companies Act 1981 enable companies to communicate with shareholders by electronic and/or website 
communications. The Company will notify shareholders (either in writing or by other permitted means) when a relevant document or other 
information is placed on the website and a shareholder may request a hard copy version of the document or information. 

GOING CONCERN AND VIABILITY STATEMENT 
The Business review section on pages 24 to 30 sets out details of the Group’s financial performance, capital management, business 
environment and outlook. In addition, further discussion of the principal risks and material uncertainties affecting the Group can be found 
on pages 34 and 35. Starting on page 101, the risk disclosures section of the consolidated financial statements sets out the principal risks to 
which the Group is exposed, including insurance, market, liquidity, credit, operational and strategic, together with the Group’s policies for 
monitoring, managing and mitigating its exposures to these risks. The Board considers annually and on a rolling basis a three-year strategic 
plan for the business which the Company progressively implements. A three-year plan period aligns to the short-tail nature of the Group’s 
liabilities and the agility in the business model, allowing the Group to adapt capital and solvency quickly in response to market cycles, events 
and opportunities. This is consistent with the outlook period in the Group’s ORSA report. The three-year strategic plan was last approved by 
the Board on 26 July 2016. The Board receives quarterly reports from the CRO and sets and approves risk tolerances for the business. The 
Board approved the Group’s 2016 ORSA report on 8 December 2016. 

During 2016, and in particular in the preparation of the 2016 ORSA report, the Board carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks 
facing the Group, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity. As part of this assessment 
the business plan was stressed for a number of scenarios and the impact on capital (on both an IFRS and Solvency II basis) evaluated. The 
Directors believe that the Group is well placed to manage its business risks successfully, having taken into account the current economic 
outlook. Accordingly, the Board believes that, taking into account the Group’s current position, and subject to the principal risks faced by  
the business, the Group will be able to continue in operation and to meet its liabilities as they fall due for the period up to 31 December 2018, 
being the period considered under the Group’s current three-year strategic plan. 

The Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due 
over the period to 31 December 2018. Accordingly, the Board has adopted and continues to consider appropriate the going concern basis in 
preparing the Annual Report and Accounts. 

AUDITORS 
Resolutions will be proposed at the Company’s 2017 AGM to appoint KPMG as the Company’s auditors and to authorise the Directors to set 
the auditors’ remuneration. 

During 2016 the Company completed an audit tender process and, as a result, the Board decided to recommend to shareholders that KPMG 
be appointed as the Company’s auditors at the 2017 AGM. EY have served as the Company’s auditors since 2005. See page 54 for further 
details of the audit tender process. 

DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION TO THE AUDITORS 
Each of the persons who is a Director at the date of approval of this Annual Report and Accounts confirms that: 

•  so far as the Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s auditors are unaware; and  
•  the Director has taken all the steps that he or she ought to have taken as a Director in order to make himself or herself aware of any 

relevant audit information and to establish that the Company’s auditors are aware of that information. 

Approved by the Board of Directors and signed on behalf of the Board. 

Christopher Head 
Company Secretary 

15 February 2017 

84 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

85 
83

GOVERNANCE 
 
 
 
STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES 

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and Accounts and the Group’s consolidated financial statements in 
accordance with applicable law and regulations. 

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year that give a true and fair view of the state of  
affairs of the Group and of the profit or loss of the Group for that year. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in 
accordance with IFRS. Where IFRS is silent, as it is in respect of certain aspects relating to the measurement of insurance products, U.S. 
GAAP is considered. Further detail on the basis of preparation is described in the consolidated financial statements. In preparing the 
consolidated financial statements, the Directors are required to: 

•  select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently; 
•  make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 
•  state whether they have been prepared in accordance with IFRS; 
•  state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the 

Group’s consolidated financial statements;  

•  provide additional disclosures where compliance with the specific requirements of IFRS are considered to be insufficient to enable users to 

understand the impact of particular transactions, events and conditions on the financial position and performance; and 

•  prepare the consolidated financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group will 

continue in business. 

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Group’s transactions and 
disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group, and enable them to ensure that the consolidated financial 
statements comply with applicable laws and regulations. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group and hence for 
taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 

DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT 
The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge: 

1. 

2. 

3. 

the consolidated financial statements, prepared in accordance with IFRS, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial 
position and profit of the Group;  

the Board considers the Annual Report and Accounts, taken as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable and provide the 
information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s position and performance, business model and strategy; and  

the Strategy and the Business review sections of this Annual Report and Accounts include a fair review of the development and 
performance of the business and the position of the Group, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that  
the Group faces. 

Legislation in Bermuda governing the preparation and dissemination of the consolidated financial statements may differ from legislation in 
other jurisdictions. In addition, the rights of shareholders under Bermuda law may differ from those for shareholders of companies 
incorporated in other jurisdictions. 

By order of the Board 

15 February 2017 

84 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

www.lancashiregroup.com 

86 

 
STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES 

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LANCASHIRE HOLDINGS LIMITED

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and Accounts and the Group’s consolidated financial statements in 

accordance with applicable law and regulations. 

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year that give a true and fair view of the state of  

affairs of the Group and of the profit or loss of the Group for that year. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in 

accordance with IFRS. Where IFRS is silent, as it is in respect of certain aspects relating to the measurement of insurance products, U.S. 

GAAP is considered. Further detail on the basis of preparation is described in the consolidated financial statements. In preparing the 

consolidated financial statements, the Directors are required to: 

•  select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently; 

•  make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 

•  state whether they have been prepared in accordance with IFRS; 

•  state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the 

Group’s consolidated financial statements;  

•  provide additional disclosures where compliance with the specific requirements of IFRS are considered to be insufficient to enable users to 

understand the impact of particular transactions, events and conditions on the financial position and performance; and 

•  prepare the consolidated financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group will 

continue in business. 

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Group’s transactions and 

disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group, and enable them to ensure that the consolidated financial 

statements comply with applicable laws and regulations. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group and hence for 

taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 

DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT 

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge: 

1. 

the consolidated financial statements, prepared in accordance with IFRS, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial 

position and profit of the Group;  

2. 

the Board considers the Annual Report and Accounts, taken as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable and provide the 

information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s position and performance, business model and strategy; and  

3. 

the Strategy and the Business review sections of this Annual Report and Accounts include a fair review of the development and 

performance of the business and the position of the Group, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that  

Legislation in Bermuda governing the preparation and dissemination of the consolidated financial statements may differ from legislation in 

other jurisdictions. In addition, the rights of shareholders under Bermuda law may differ from those for shareholders of companies 

the Group faces. 

incorporated in other jurisdictions. 

By order of the Board 

15 February 2017 

OUR OPINION ON THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In our opinion the consolidated financial statements:

•  give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 31 December 2016 and of its profit for the year then ended; and
•  have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union.

WHAT WE HAVE AUDITED
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of LHL for the year ended 31 December 2016 which comprise:

•  the consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December 2016;
•  the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended;
•  the consolidated statement of changes in shareholders’ equity for the year then ended;
•  the statement of consolidated cash flows for the year then ended; and
•  the accounting policies, the risk disclosures, and the related notes to the accounts 1 to 24.

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.

OVERVIEW OF OUR AUDIT APPROACH

Risks of material misstatement

 – Valuation of loss reserves

 – Goodwill and intangible assets

 – Revenue recognition – premium estimates

Audit scope

 – We performed an audit of the complete financial information of 4 components

 – The components where we performed full or specific audit procedures accounted for 100 per cent 
of profit before tax, 100 per cent of gross premiums written and 100 per cent of insurance contract 
liabilities

Materiality

Overall Group materiality of $7.5 million, which represents 5 per cent of profit before tax

OUR ASSESSMENT OF RISKS OF MATERIAL MISSTATEMENT AND RESPONSE TO THOSE RISKS
We identified the risks of material misstatement described below as those that had the greatest effect on our overall audit strategy, the 
allocation of resources in the audit and the direction of the efforts of the audit team. These risks are consistent with those identified during 
the 2015 audit. In addressing these risks, we have performed the procedures below which were designed in the context of the consolidated 
financial statements as a whole and, consequently, we do not express any opinion on these individual areas.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

86 

www.lancashiregroup.com 

85

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LANCASHIRE HOLDINGS LIMITED CONTINUED

VALUATION OF LOSS RESERVES ($679.8 MILLION GROSS, $543.1 MILLION NET; 2015: $671.0 MILLION GROSS, $587.1 MILLION NET)
Refer to page 50 (Audit Committee report), page 98 (accounting policies), page 109 (risk disclosures), and page 143 (disclosures)

Risk

Response

The valuation of loss reserves 
incorporates a significant amount of 
judgement. It is reasonably possible 
that uncertainties inherent in the 
reserving process, delays in insureds 
or ceding companies reporting 
losses to the Group, together with 
the potential for unforeseen adverse 
developments, could lead to the 
ultimate amount paid varying 
materially from the amount 
estimated at this reporting date.

We understood, assessed and tested the design and operational 
effectiveness of the key controls in the Group’s reserving process, 
including the review and approval of the reserves, and controls over  
the extraction of data from the appropriate sources.

Supported by our actuarial specialists, we evaluated management’s 
methodology against market practice and challenged management’s 
assumptions and their assessment of major sensitivities, based on our 
market knowledge and industry data where available. The main areas of 
judgement include the level of reserves held for specific losses, the loss 
development patterns selected and the initial expected loss ratios.

Using management’s data, we independently re-projected the loss and 
loss adjustment expense reserves for LUK, LICL, and Cathedral on both  
a gross and net basis, investigating significant differences between our 
projections and management’s booked reserves. Using our own re-
projection we then considered whether the loss and loss adjustment 
expense reserves held at the year end fall within a reasonable range of 
possible estimates.

We considered the results of the third-party actuarial review of the loss 
and loss adjustment reserves as at the reporting date, presented to the 
Audit Committee, again specifically to identify and understand any 
significant differences in projections.

In light of our work outlined above, we considered the adequacy of 
disclosures of the judgements and uncertainties being made by the 
Directors in the insurance risk note on page 103 and note 12 related  
to losses and loss adjustment expenses.

What we concluded to  
the Audit Committee

Taken as a whole,  
we consider that 
managements 
judgements in the 
areas highlighted  
are reasonable based 
on the information 
available at the date of 
this report. Consistent 
with the prior period, 
the Group’s booked 
reserves lie within what 
we consider to be a 
reasonable range 
of estimates.

In addition we 
consider that the 
disclosures made are 
satisfactory, and they 
provide information 
that assists in 
understanding the 
uncertainty inherent  
in the valuation of 
loss reserves.

86 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS ($153.8 MILLION; 2015: $153.8 MILLION)
Refer to page 50 (Audit Committee report), page 97 (accounting policy) and page 146 (disclosures)

Risk

Response

We considered the risk that the 
goodwill and intangible assets arising 
from the Cathedral acquisition may 
be impaired.

In testing for impairment, 
judgement is applied by 
management in deriving:

 – the forecast cash flows; and

Management’s impairment assessment of the recorded value of goodwill 
and the syndicate participation rights was performed as at 30 September 
2016. We evaluated and challenged this assessment, including:

 – validating that the base cash flows used were consistent with the three 

year forecast approved by the Board;

 – reading the three year plan, assessing back testing performed by 

management to support the robustness of the forecast process and 
having regard to market conditions;

 – the pre-tax discount rate applied 

 – considering whether the pre-tax discount rate applied was appropriate 

to those cash flows.

by assessing the cost of capital for the Group and comparable 
businesses, and the sensitivity of the impairment assessment to changes 
in the pre-tax discount rate; and

 – assessing whether long term growth assumptions were consistent with 

economic and industry forecasts; and

 – assessing the sensitivity analysis performed by management, and 

performing our own stress tests of the pre-tax discount rate, forecast 
cash flows, and long term growth rate assumptions in isolation and in 
combination to consider reasonably possible alternative scenarios.

We considered management’s assessment as to whether there were  
any impairment indicators during the final quarter of the year, which 
included a comparison of expected 1 January 2017 business to be written 
as per the three year plan against the actual business subsequently written.

REVENUE RECOGNITION – PREMIUM ESTIMATES
Refer to page 50 (Audit Committee report) and page 97 (accounting policy)

Risk

Response

We evaluated and tested the key controls over the premium estimation 
process, which include the periodic review by management of estimated 
premiums, taking into account any third-party information received from 
intermediaries or insureds.

For a sample of policies we verified the year end estimated premium 
income, including considering the basis of estimation and corroborating 
evidence such as information from brokers.

We have analysed the development, during the period, of estimates 
recognised as at 31 December 2016 to identify if there is any indication  
of management bias.

For certain contracts written, 
premium revenues are initially 
recognised based on estimates of 
ultimate premiums. This occurs for 
contracts where pricing is based on 
variables which are not known with 
certainty at the point of binding the 
contract. Subsequent adjustments  
to those estimates, which arise as 
updated information relating to 
those pricing variables becomes 
available, are recorded in the period 
in which they are determined.

These estimates are judgemental 
and therefore could result in 
misstatements of revenue  
recognised in the consolidated 
financial statements.

What we concluded to  
the Audit Committee

We agreed with  
the conclusions  
of management’s 
assessment at 30 
September 2016,  
that the recoverable 
amounts exceeded the 
recorded values with 
headroom remaining 
when key assumptions 
were stressed for what 
we consider to be 
cautious assumptions, 
and that as a result,  
no impairment of the 
goodwill and indefinite 
lived intangible assets 
was required.

We also agreed  
with management’s 
assessment that no 
impairment triggers 
occurred in the final 
quarter of the year.

What we concluded to  
the Audit Committee

Based on the results  
of the procedures 
performed we have 
concluded that the 
premium estimates  
are recorded in  
line with applicable 
accounting standards.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

87

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LANCASHIRE HOLDINGS LIMITED CONTINUED

THE SCOPE OF OUR AUDIT
TAILORING THE SCOPE
Our assessment of audit risk, our evaluation of materiality and our allocation of performance materiality determine our audit scope for  
each component within the Group. Taken together, this enables us to form an opinion on the consolidated financial statements. We take into 
account size, risk profile, the organisation of the Group and effectiveness of group-wide controls, changes in the business environment and 
other factors such as recent Internal Audit results when assessing the level of work to be performed at each component.

In assessing the risk of material misstatement to the consolidated financial statements, and to ensure we had adequate quantitative coverage of 
significant accounts in the consolidated financial statements, we performed an audit of the complete financial information (‘full scope audit’) 
of all components of the group being LUK, LICL, Cathedral and Group except for the investment in associate for which we performed 
specified procedures.

Full scope audit procedures were performed over 100 per cent (2015: 100 per cent) of gross written premiums and insurance contract 
liabilities, and 97 per cent (2015: 98 per cent) of profit before tax. Specified audit procedures were performed over the remaining 3 per cent 
(2015: 2 per cent) of profit before tax.

CHANGES FROM THE PRIOR YEAR
There have been no material scoping changes from the prior year.

INVOLVEMENT WITH COMPONENT TEAMS
In establishing our overall approach to the Group audit, we determined the type of work that needed to be undertaken at each of the 
components by us, as the primary audit team, or by component auditors from other EY global network firms operating under our instruction.

The primary audit team, comprising both London and Bermuda members, visited all of the full scope components. These visits involved 
discussing the audit approach with the component team and any issues arising from their work, meeting with local management, and 
reviewing key audit working papers on the Group risk areas. The primary audit team interacted regularly with the component teams where 
appropriate during various stages of the audit, reviewed key working papers and were responsible for the scope and direction of the audit 
process. This, together with the additional procedures performed at Group level, gave us appropriate evidence for our opinion on the 
consolidated financial statements.

OUR APPLICATION OF MATERIALITY
We apply the concept of materiality in planning and performing our audit, in evaluating the effect of identified misstatements on our audit 
and in forming our audit opinion.

MATERIALITY
The magnitude of an omission or misstatement that, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to influence the economic 
decisions of the users of the financial statements. Materiality provides a basis for determining the nature and extent of our audit procedures.

We determined materiality for the Group to be $7.5 million (2015: $8.6 million), which is approximately 5 per cent (2015: approximately 5 per 
cent) of profit before tax. The decrease in materiality from the prior period is due to the reduced profit before tax for the current period.

PERFORMANCE MATERIALITY
The application of materiality at the individual account or balance level. It is set at an amount to reduce to an appropriately low level the 
probability that the aggregate of uncorrected and undetected misstatements exceeds materiality.

On the basis of our risk assessments, together with our assessment of the Group’s overall control environment, our judgement was that 
performance materiality was 50 per cent (2015: 50 per cent) of our planning materiality, namely $3.8 million (2015: $4.3 million).

Audit work at component locations for the purpose of obtaining audit coverage over significant financial statement accounts is undertaken 
based on a percentage of total performance materiality. The performance materiality set for each component is based on the relative scale  
and risk of the component to the Group as a whole and our assessment of the risk of misstatement at that component. In the current year,  
the range of performance materiality allocated to components was $3.8 million to $1.9 million (2015: $4.3 million to $2.4 million).

REPORTING THRESHOLD
An amount below which identified misstatements are considered as being clearly trivial.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them all uncorrected audit differences in excess of $0.5 million  
(2015: $0.5 million), as well as differences below that threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

In forming our opinion, we evaluate any uncorrected misstatements against both the quantitative measures of materiality discussed above and 
in the light of other relevant qualitative considerations.

88 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

SCOPE OF THE AUDIT OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements sufficient to give reasonable 
assurance that the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This includes  
an assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the Group’s circumstances and have been consistently applied and 
adequately disclosed; the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the Directors; and the overall presentation of the 
consolidated financial statements.

In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information in the Annual Report and Accounts to identify material inconsistencies 
with the audited consolidated financial statements and to identify any information that is apparently materially incorrect based on, or 
materially inconsistent with, the knowledge acquired by us in the course of performing the audit. If we become aware of any apparent  
material misstatements or inconsistencies we consider the implications for our report.

RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIRECTORS AND AUDITORS
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities set out on page 84, the Directors are responsible for the preparation  
of the consolidated financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express  
an opinion on the consolidated financial statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and 
Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical Standards for Auditors.

The Company has also instructed us to audit the section of the Directors’ Remuneration Report that has been described as audited and state 
whether it has been properly prepared in accordance with the basis of preparation described therein.

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with our engagement letter dated 7 August 2015. Our audit 
work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors’ 
report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the 
Company and the Company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

OPINION ON OTHER MATTERS
In our opinion the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report that is described as having been audited has been properly prepared in 
accordance with the basis of preparation as described therein.

MATTERS ON WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT BY EXCEPTION

ISAs (UK and Ireland) reporting

We are required to report to you if, in our opinion, financial and 
non-financial information in the Annual Report and Accounts is:

We have no exceptions 
to report.

 – materially inconsistent with the information in the audited consolidated 

financial statements; or

 – apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent 

with, our knowledge of the Group acquired in the course of 
performing our audit; or

 – otherwise misleading.

In particular, we are required to report whether we have identified  
any inconsistencies between our knowledge acquired in the course of 
performing the audit and the Directors’ statement that they consider that 
the Annual Report and Accounts taken as a whole is fair, balanced and 
understandable and provides the information necessary for shareholders 
to assess the entity’s performance, business model and strategy; and 
whether the Annual Report and Accounts appropriately addresses those 
matters that we communicated to the Audit Committee that we consider 
should have been disclosed.

Listing Rules review requirements

We are required to review:

 – the Directors’ statement in relation to going concern and longer-term 

viability, set out on page 83; and

 – the part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to the 
Company’s compliance with the provisions of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code specified for review.

We have no exceptions 
to report.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

89

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LANCASHIRE HOLDINGS LIMITED CONTINUED

STATEMENT ON THE DIRECTORS’ ASSESSMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL RISKS THAT WOULD THREATEN THE SOLVENCY OR LIQUIDITY  
OF THE ENTITY

We have nothing 
material to add or  
draw attention to.

ISAs (UK and Ireland) reporting

We are required to give a statement as to whether we have anything 
material to add or to draw attention to in relation to:

 – the Directors’ confirmation in the Annual Report and Accounts that 
they have carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing 
the entity, including those that would threaten its business model, 
future performance, solvency or liquidity;

 – the disclosures in the Annual Report and Accounts that describe  
those risks and explain how they are being managed or mitigated;

 – the Directors’ statement in the Annual Report and Accounts about 
whether they considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern 
basis of accounting in preparing them, and their identification of any 
material uncertainties to the entity’s ability to continue to do so over  
a period of at least twelve months from the date of approval of the 
consolidated financial statements; and

 – the Directors’ explanation in the Annual Report and Accounts as to 
how they have assessed the prospects of the entity, over what period 
they have done so and why they consider that period to be appropriate, 
and their statement as to whether they have a reasonable expectation 
that the entity will be able to continue in operation and meet its 
liabilities as they fall due over the period of their assessment, including 
any related disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications 
or assumptions.

Ernst & Young LLP
London

15 February 2017

(1)  The maintenance and integrity of the Lancashire Holdings Limited website is the responsibility of the Directors; the work carried out by the auditors does not involve consideration of these matters and, accordingly,  

the auditors accept no responsibility for any changes that may have occurred to the consolidated financial statements since they were initially presented on the website.

(2)  Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

90 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the year ended 31 December 2016

Gross premiums written
Outwards reinsurance premiums
Net premiums written
Change in unearned premiums
Change in unearned premiums on premiums ceded
Net premiums earned
Net investment income
Net other investment income (losses)
Net realised (losses) gains and impairments
Share of profit of associate
Other income
Net foreign exchange gains (losses)
Total net revenue
Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses
Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses recoverable
Net insurance losses
Insurance acquisition expenses
Insurance acquisition expenses ceded
Other operating expenses
Equity based compensation
Total expenses
Results of operating activities
Financing costs
Profit before tax
Tax credit
Profit for the year
Profit for the year attributable to:
Equity shareholders of LHL
Non-controlling interests
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income (loss) to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods
Net change in unrealised gains/losses on investments
Tax provision on net change in unrealised gains/losses on investments
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Total comprehensive income for the year
Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Equity shareholders of LHL
Non-controlling interests
Total comprehensive income for the year

Earnings per share
Basic
Diluted

Notes

2

2

2

2

3

3

3

15

22

2, 12

2, 12

2, 4

2, 4

5, 6, 20

6

7

8

3, 10

10

21

21

2016 
$m
633.9
(175.2)
458.7
25.7
3.7
488.1
29.8
6.9
(2.4)
5.1
20.5
4.4
552.4
212.2
(69.7)
142.5
135.1
(3.0)
98.5
10.7
383.8
168.6
18.2
150.4
3.9
154.3

153.8
0.5
154.3

4.1
–
4.1
158.4

157.9
0.5
158.4

$0.77
$0.76

2015 
$m
641.1
(159.4)
481.7
79.9
5.5
567.1
29.8
(1.3)
(2.8)
4.1
19.9
(2.4)
614.4
177.5
(21.8)
155.7
148.2
(2.0)
106.6
15.8
424.3
190.1
18.4
171.7
10.0
181.7

181.1
0.6
181.7

(11.6)
0.3
(11.3)
170.4

169.8
0.6
170.4

$0.93
$0.91

www.lancashiregroup.com 

91

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
As at 31 December 2016

Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Accrued interest receivable
Investments
Inwards premiums receivable from insureds and cedants
Reinsurance assets
 – Unearned premiums on premiums ceded
 – Reinsurance recoveries
 – Other receivables
Other receivables
Corporation tax receivable
Investment in associate
Property, plant and equipment
Deferred acquisition costs
Intangible assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Insurance contracts
 – Losses and loss adjustment expenses
 – Unearned premiums
 – Other payables
Amounts payable to reinsurers
Deferred acquisition costs ceded
Other payables
Corporation tax payable
Deferred tax liability
Interest rate swap
Long-term debt
Total liabilities
Shareholders’ equity
Share capital
Own shares
Other reserves
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Retained earnings
Total shareholders’ equity attributable to equity shareholders of LHL
Non-controlling interests
Total shareholders’ equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

Notes

9, 17

10, 11, 17

13

12

13

13

11, 15

16

12

14

17

17

18

18

19

10

22

2016 
$m

2015 
$m

308.8
6.6
1,648.4
270.0

33.9
136.7
16.5
43.6
1.1
49.7
5.3
81.5
153.8
2,755.9

679.8
373.5
37.4
52.7
0.4
61.0
–
18.7
3.7
320.9
1,548.1

100.7
(23.2)
881.6
(6.4)
254.6
1,207.3
0.5
1,207.8
2,755.9

291.8
6.5
1,773.3
253.7

30.2
83.9
2.7
37.8
–
47.5
7.2
87.2
153.8
2,775.6

671.0
399.2
36.2
26.6
0.3
67.0
1.8
25.6
4.8
322.3
1,554.8

100.7
(30.4)
880.8
(10.5)
279.7
1,220.3
0.5
1,220.8
2,775.6

The consolidated financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 15 February 2017 and signed on its behalf by:

Alex Maloney 
Director/CEO 

Elaine Whelan
Director/CFO

92 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
For the year ended 31 December 2016

Balance as at 31 December 2014
Total comprehensive income for the year
Shares purchased by trust
Distributed by trust
Dividends on common shares
Dividend equivalents on warrants
Dividends paid to minority interest holders
Warrant exercises
Equity based compensation – tax
Equity based compensation – expense
Balance as at 31 December 2015
Total comprehensive income for the year
Shares donated to trust
Distributed by trust
Dividends on common shares
Dividends paid to minority interest holders
Equity based compensation – expense
Balance as at 31 December 2016

Notes

18, 19, 22, 23

18, 19

18

18, 19

22

18, 19, 23

8, 19

6, 19

18, 19, 22

18, 19

18

22

19

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
loss 
$m
0.8
(11.3)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(10.5)
4.1
–
–
–
–
–
(6.4)

Other  
reserves 
$m
887.1
–
8.8
(17.2)
–
–
–
(13.8)
0.1
15.8
880.8
–
(0.6)
(9.5)
–
–
10.9
881.6

Own  
shares 
$m
(43.3)
–
(9.3)
12.5
–
–
–
9.7
–
–
(30.4)
–
0.6
6.6
–
–
–
(23.2)

Share  
capital 
$m
96.1
–
0.5
–
–
–
–
4.1
–
–
100.7
–
–
–
–
–
–
100.7

Shareholders’ 
equity 
attributable 
to equity 
shareholders 
of LHL 
$m
1,356.8
169.8
–
(4.7)
(316.0)
(1.5)
–
–
0.1
15.8
1,220.3
157.9
–
(2.9)
(178.9)
–
10.9
1,207.3

Retained 
earnings 
$m
416.1
181.1
–
–
(316.0)
(1.5)
–
–
–
–
279.7
153.8
–
–
(178.9)
–
–
254.6

Non-
controlling 
interests 
$m
0.5
0.6
–
–
–
–
(0.6)
–
–
–
0.5
0.5
–
–
–
(0.5)
–
0.5

Total 
shareholders’ 
equity 
$m
1,357.3
170.4
–
(4.7)
(316.0)
(1.5)
(0.6)
–
0.1
15.8
1,220.8
158.4
–
(2.9)
(178.9)
(0.5)
10.9
1,207.8

www.lancashiregroup.com 

93

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
Notes

5

7

6

15

3

3

22

18

9

2016 
$m

150.4
(1.3)
2.3
15.6
(38.5)
5.0
10.7
(2.3)
(5.1)
(6.9)
2.4
(1.1)

(71.7)
(10.6)
48.9

38.4
(0.4)
2.9
(1,214.0)
1,341.8
168.7

(15.4)
(178.9)
(0.5)
(2.9)
(197.7)
19.9
291.8
(2.9)
308.8

2015 
$m

171.7
4.4
1.9
15.1
(40.9)
8.1
15.8
10.8
(4.1)
1.3
2.8
(0.1)

(71.0)
(17.7)
98.1

42.1
–
9.3
(990.8)
1,173.5
234.1

(15.2)
(317.5)
(0.6)
(4.7)
(338.0)
(5.8)
303.5
(5.9)
291.8

STATEMENT OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
For the year ended 31 December 2016

Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before tax
Tax (paid) refunded
Depreciation
Interest expense on long-term debt
Interest and dividend income
Net amortisation of fixed maturity securities
Equity based compensation
Foreign exchange (gains) losses
Share of profit of associate
Net other investment (income) losses
Net realised losses (gains) and impairments
Net unrealised gains on interest rate swaps
Changes in operational assets and liabilities
 – Insurance and reinsurance contracts
 – Other assets and liabilities
Net cash flows from operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Interest and dividends received
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Investment in associate
Purchase of investments
Proceeds on sale of investments
Net cash flows from investing activities
Cash flows used in financing activities
Interest paid
Dividends paid
Dividends paid to minority interest holders
Distributions by trust
Net cash flows used in financing activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

94 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

ACCOUNTING POLICIES
For the year ended 31 December 2016

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The basis of preparation, consolidation principles and significant accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these consolidated 
financial statements are set out below.

BASIS OF PREPARATION
The Group’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted under IFRS as 
adopted by the European Union.

Where IFRS is silent, as it is in respect of certain aspects relating to the measurement of insurance products, the IFRS framework allows 
reference to another comprehensive body of accounting principles. In such instances, the Group’s management determines appropriate 
measurement bases, to provide the most useful information to users of the consolidated financial statements, using their judgement and 
considering U.S. GAAP.

All amounts, excluding share data or where otherwise stated, are in millions of U.S. dollars.

While a number of new or amended IFRS and IFRIC standards have been issued in 2016 there are no standards issued that have had a 
material impact on the Group.

IFRS 4, Insurance Contracts, issued in March 2004, specifies the financial reporting for insurance contracts by an insurer. The current 
standard is Phase I in the IASB’s insurance contract project and, as noted above, does not specify the recognition or measurement of insurance 
contracts. These will be addressed in IFRS 17, previously referred to as IFRS 4 Phase II, which will include a number of significant changes 
regarding the measurement and disclosure of insurance contracts both in terms of liability measurement and profit recognition. IFRS 17 is 
expected to be issued in the first half of 2017 with an effective date of 1 January 2021. The Group will continue to assess the potential impact 
the new standard will have on its results and the presentation and disclosure thereof.

IFRS 9, Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement, has been issued but is not yet effective, and therefore has not yet been  
adopted by the Group. The Group continues to apply IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement and classifies its fixed 
maturity securities, equity securities and hedge funds as AFS or FVTPL. The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 
1 January 2018, although it has been deferred for insurers to 1 January 2021 to align with the implementation date of IFRS 17. IFRS 9 is not 
expected to have a material impact on the results and disclosures reported in the consolidated financial statements.

The consolidated balance sheet of the Group is presented in order of decreasing liquidity.

USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the Group to make estimates and assumptions that affect the 
reported and disclosed amounts at the balance sheet date and the reported and disclosed amounts of revenues and expenses during the 
reporting period. Actual results may differ materially from the estimates made.

The most significant estimate made by management is in relation to losses and loss adjustment expenses. This is discussed on page 98 and also 
in the risk disclosures section from page 109. Estimates in relation to losses and loss adjustment expenses recoverable are discussed on page 98.

Estimates are also made in determining the estimated fair value of certain financial instruments and equity compensation plans. The 
estimation of the fair value of financial instruments is discussed on pages 98 and 99 and in note 10. Management judgement is applied in 
determining impairment charges. The estimation of the fair value of equity based compensation awards granted is discussed in note 6.

Intangible assets are recognised on the acquisition of a subsidiary. The fair value of intangible assets arising from the acquisition of a subsidiary 
is largely based on the estimated expected cash flows of the business acquired and the contractual rights of that business. The Group 
determines whether indefinite life intangible assets are impaired at least on an annual basis. This requires an estimation of the recoverable 
amount of the CGU to which the intangible assets are allocated. The assumptions made by management in performing impairment tests of 
intangible assets are subject to estimation uncertainty. Details of the key assumptions used in the estimation of the recoverable amounts of the 
CGU are contained in note 16.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

95

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries as at and for the year ended 
31 December 2016. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date of acquisition, being the date on which the Group obtains control, and 
continue to be consolidated until the date when such control ceases. Intercompany balances, profits and transactions are eliminated. Control 
is achieved when the Group is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect 
those returns through its power over the investee.

The Group participates on two Syndicates at Lloyd’s, which are managed by the Group’s managing agent subsidiary. In view of the several 
liability of underwriting members at Lloyd’s, the Group recognises its proportion of all the transactions undertaken by the Syndicates in which 
it participates within its consolidated statement of comprehensive income. Similarly, the Group’s proportion of the Syndicates’ assets and 
liabilities has been reflected in its consolidated balance sheet. This proportion is calculated by reference to the Group’s participation as a 
percentage of each Syndicate’s total capacity for each year of account.

Subsidiaries’ accounting policies are generally consistent with the Group’s accounting policies. Where they differ, adjustments are made on 
consolidation to bring accounting policies in line.

ASSOCIATE
Investments, in which the Group has significant influence over the operational and financial policies of the investee, are recognised at cost  
and thereafter accounted for using the equity method. Under this method, the Group records its proportionate share of income and loss from 
such investments in its consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the period. Adjustments are made to investment in associate 
accounting policies, where necessary, in order to be consistent with the Group’s accounting policies.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
The functional currency, which is the currency of the primary economic environment in which operations are conducted, for all Group 
entities is U.S. dollars. Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are measured using the functional currency. 
The consolidated financial statements are also presented in U.S. dollars.

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the functional currency for each entity using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of  
the transactions, or at the average rate for the period when this is a reasonable approximation. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated  
in foreign currencies are translated at period end exchange rates. The resulting exchange differences on translation are recorded in the 
consolidated statement of comprehensive income. Non-monetary assets and liabilities carried at historical cost and denominated in a foreign 
currency are translated at historic rates. Non-monetary assets and liabilities carried at estimated fair value and denominated in a foreign 
currency are translated at the exchange rate at the date the estimated fair value was determined, with resulting exchange differences  
recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity.

96 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value as at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, 
intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses. The useful lives of intangible 
assets are assessed to be either finite or indefinite depending on the nature of the asset. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over 
their useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. Intangible 
assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment at least annually at the CGU level by comparing the net present value of the future 
earnings stream of the CGU to the carrying value of the intangible asset. Such intangible assets are not amortised. The useful life of an 
intangible asset with an indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life assessment continues to be supportable.

GOODWILL
Goodwill is deemed to have an indefinite life and, after initial recognition, is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. 
Goodwill is tested for impairment annually, or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired.

SYNDICATE PARTICIPATION RIGHTS
Syndicate participation rights purchased in a business combination are initially measured at fair value and are subsequently measured at cost 
less any accumulated impairment losses. Syndicate participation rights are considered to have an indefinite life as they will provide benefits 
over an indefinite future period and are therefore not subject to an annual amortisation charge. The value of the syndicate participation  
rights is reviewed for impairment at least annually, or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired.

INSURANCE CONTRACTS
CLASSIFICATION
Insurance contracts are those contracts that transfer significant insurance risk at the inception of the contract. Contracts that do not transfer 
significant insurance risk are accounted for as investment contracts. Insurance risk is transferred when an insurer agrees to compensate a 
policyholder if a specified uncertain future event adversely affects the policyholder.

PREMIUMS AND ACQUISITION COSTS
Premiums are first recognised as written at the later of a contract’s binding or inception date. The Group writes both excess of loss  
and pro-rata (proportional) contracts. For the majority of excess of loss contracts, premiums written are recorded based on the minimum  
and deposit or flat premium, as defined in the contract. Subsequent adjustments to the minimum and deposit premium are recognised in  
the period in which they are determined. For pro-rata contracts and excess of loss contracts where no deposit is specified in the contract, 
premiums written are recognised based on estimates of ultimate premiums provided by the insureds or ceding companies. Initial estimates of 
premiums written are recognised in the period in which the contract incepts, or the period in which the contract is bound if later. Subsequent 
adjustments, based on reports of actual premium by the insureds or ceding companies, or revisions in estimates, are recorded in the period in 
which they are determined.

Premiums written are earned rateably over the term of the underlying risk period of the insurance contract, except where the period of risk 
differs significantly from the contract period. In these circumstances, premiums are recognised over the period of risk in proportion to the 
amount of insurance protection provided. The portion of the premium related to the unexpired portion of the risk period is reflected in 
unearned premiums.

Where contract terms require the reinstatement of coverage after an insured’s or ceding company’s loss, the estimated mandatory 
reinstatement premiums are recorded as premiums written when a specific loss event occurs. Reinstatement premiums are not recorded for 
losses included within the provision for IBNR that do not relate to a specific loss event.

Inwards premiums receivable from insureds and cedants are recorded net of commissions, brokerage, premium taxes and other levies on 
premiums, unless the contract specifies otherwise. These balances are reviewed for impairment, with any impairment loss recognised as an 
expense in the period in which it is determined.

Acquisition costs represent commissions, brokerage, profit commissions and other variable costs that relate directly to the successful securing 
of new contracts and the renewing of existing contracts. They are generally deferred over the period in which the related premiums are 
earned to the extent they are recoverable out of expected future revenue margins. All other acquisition costs are recognised as an expense 
when incurred.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

97

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

OUTWARDS REINSURANCE
Outwards reinsurance premiums comprise the cost of reinsurance contracts entered into. Outwards reinsurance premiums are accounted for 
in the period in which the contract incepts, or the period in which the contract is bound if later. The provision for the reinsurers’ share of 
unearned premiums represents that part of reinsurance premiums ceded which are estimated to be earned in future financial periods. 
Unearned reinsurance commissions are recognised as a liability using the same principles.

Any amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated using the same methodology as for the underlying losses. The Group monitors the 
creditworthiness of its reinsurers on an ongoing basis and assesses any reinsurance assets for impairment, with any impairment loss recognised 
as an expense in the period in which it is determined.

LOSSES
Losses comprise losses and loss adjustment expenses paid in the period and changes in the provision for outstanding losses and ACR, 
including the provision for IBNR and related expenses. Losses and loss adjustment expenses are charged to income as they are incurred.

A portion of the Group’s business is in classes with high attachment points of coverage, including property catastrophe excess of loss. 
Reserving for losses in such programmes is inherently complicated in that losses in excess of the attachment level of the Group’s policies are 
characterised by high severity and low frequency and other factors which could vary significantly as losses are settled. This limits the volume  
of industry loss experience available from which to reliably predict ultimate losses following a loss event.

Losses and loss adjustment expenses represent the estimated ultimate cost of settling all losses and loss adjustment expenses arising from 
events which have occurred up to the balance sheet date, including a provision for IBNR. The Group does not discount its liabilities for  
unpaid losses. Outstanding losses are initially set on the basis of reports of losses received from third parties. ACRs are determined where the 
Group’s best estimate of the reported loss is greater than that reported. Estimated IBNR reserves may also consist of a provision for additional 
development in excess of losses reported by insureds or ceding companies, as well as a provision for losses which have occurred but which have 
not yet been reported by insureds or ceding companies. IBNR reserves are set on a best estimate basis and are estimated by management using 
various actuarial methods as well as a combination of the Group’s own loss experience, historical insurance industry loss experience, 
underwriters’ experience, estimates of pricing adequacy trends and management’s professional judgement.

The estimation of the ultimate liability arising is a complex process which incorporates a significant amount of judgement. It is reasonably 
possible that uncertainties inherent in the reserving process, delays in insureds or ceding companies reporting losses to the Group, together 
with the potential for unforeseen adverse developments, could lead to a material change in losses and loss adjustment expenses.

LIABILITY ADEQUACY TESTS
At each balance sheet date, the Group performs a liability adequacy test using current best estimates of future cash outflows generated by its 
insurance contracts, plus any investment income thereon. If, as a result of these tests, the carrying amount of the Group’s insurance liabilities is 
found to be inadequate, the deficiency is charged to income for the period, initially by writing off deferred acquisition costs and subsequently 
by establishing a provision.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents are carried in the consolidated balance sheet at amortised cost and include cash in hand, deposits held on call  
with banks and other short-term highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase. Carrying amounts 
approximate fair value due to the short-term nature and high liquidity of the instruments.

Interest income earned on cash and cash equivalents is recognised on the effective interest rate method. The carrying value of accrued interest 
income approximates estimated fair value due to its short-term nature and high liquidity.

INVESTMENTS
The Group’s fixed maturity and equity securities are quoted or unquoted investments that are classified as AFS or at FVTPL and are carried at 
estimated fair value. The classification of the Group’s financial assets is determined at the time of initial purchase and depends on the nature 
of the investment. A financial asset is classified at FVTPL if it is managed and evaluated on a fair value basis and if acquired principally for the 
purpose of selling in the short term, or if it forms part of a portfolio of financial assets in which there is evidence of short-term profit taking. 
Equity securities classified as AFS are those that are neither classified as held for trading nor designated at FVTPL. Fixed maturity securities 
classified as AFS are those that are intended to be held for an indefinite period of time and that may be sold in response to needs for liquidity 
or in response to changes in market conditions.

98 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

The Group’s hedge funds are unquoted investments classified at FVTPL and are carried at estimated fair value. Estimated fair values are 
determined using a combination of the most recent NAVs provided by each fund’s independent administrator and the estimated performance 
provided by each hedge fund manager.

Regular way purchases and sales of investments are recognised at estimated fair value including, in the case of investments not carried  
at FVTPL, transaction costs attributable to the acquisition of that investment on the trade date and are subsequently carried at estimated  
fair value. The estimated fair values of quoted and unquoted investments are determined based on bid prices from recognised exchanges, 
broker-dealers, recognised indices or pricing vendors. Unrealised gains and losses from changes in the estimated fair value of AFS investments 
are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity. Changes in estimated fair value of investments 
classified at FVTPL are recognised in current period net other investment income (loss).

Investments are derecognised when the Group has transferred substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership. On derecognition of  
an AFS investment, previously recorded unrealised gains and losses are removed from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in 
shareholders’ equity and included in current period income. Realised gains and losses are included in income in the period in which 
they arise.

Amortisation and accretion of premiums and discounts on AFS fixed maturity securities are calculated using the effective interest rate method 
and are recognised in current period net investment income. Interest income is recognised on the effective interest rate method. The carrying 
value of accrued interest income approximates estimated fair value due to its short-term nature and high liquidity. Dividends on equity 
securities are recorded as income on the date the dividends become payable to the holders of record.

The Group regularly reviews the carrying value of its AFS investments for evidence of impairment. An investment is impaired if its carrying 
value exceeds the estimated fair value and there is objective evidence of impairment to the asset. Such evidence would include a prolonged 
decline in estimated fair value below cost or amortised cost, where other factors, such as expected cash flows, do not support a recovery in 
value. If an impairment is deemed appropriate, the difference between cost or amortised cost and estimated fair value is removed from 
accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity and charged to current period income. Impairment losses on fixed 
maturity securities may be subsequently reversed through income while impairment losses on equity securities are not subsequently reversed 
through income.

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Derivatives are recognised at estimated fair value on the date a contract is entered into, the trade date, and are subsequently carried at 
estimated fair value. Derivative instruments with a positive estimated fair value are recorded as derivative financial assets and those with a 
negative estimated fair value are recorded as derivative financial liabilities.

Derivative financial instruments include exchange-traded future and option contracts, forward foreign currency contracts, interest rate  
swaps, credit default swaps and interest rate swaptions. They derive their value from the underlying instrument and are subject to the same 
risks as that underlying instrument, including liquidity, credit and market risk. Estimated fair values are based on exchange or broker-dealer 
quotations, where available, or discounted cash flow models, which incorporate the pricing of the underlying instrument, yield curves and 
other factors. Changes in the estimated fair value of instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognised in current period 
income. The Group does not currently hold any derivatives classified as hedging instruments. For discounted cash flow techniques, estimated 
future cash flows are based on management’s best estimates and the discount rate used is an appropriate market rate.

Derivative financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the consolidated balance sheet only to the extent there  
is a legally enforceable right of offset and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or to realise the assets and liabilities simultaneously. 
Derivative financial assets and liabilities are derecognised when the Group has transferred substantially all of the risks and rewards of 
ownership or the liability is discharged, cancelled or expired.

OTHER INCOME
Fees and profit commissions are recognised in line with services provided. Contingent profit commissions due on open years of account are 
recognised when it is virtually certain that they will be realised.

LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt is recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Thereafter it is held at amortised cost, with the 
amortisation calculated using the effective interest rate method. Derecognition occurs when the obligation has been extinguished.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

99

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment is carried at historical cost, less accumulated depreciation and any impairment in value. Depreciation is 
calculated to write off the cost over the estimated useful economic life on a straight-line basis as follows:

IT equipment
Office furniture and equipment
Leasehold improvements

33% per annum
20% to 33% per annum
20% per annum

The assets’ residual values, useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.

An item of property, plant or equipment is derecognised on disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from the 
continued use of the asset.

Gains and losses on the disposal of property, plant and equipment are determined by comparing proceeds with the carrying amount of the 
asset, and are included in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. Costs for repairs and maintenance are charged to income 
as incurred.

LEASES
Rentals payable under operating leases are charged to income on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLANS
The Group currently operates an RSS under which nil-cost options have been granted. The Group has also operated a management warrant 
plan in the past. The fair value of the equity instruments granted is estimated on the date of grant. The estimated fair value is recognised as an 
expense pro-rata over the vesting period of the instrument, adjusted for the impact of any non-market vesting conditions. No adjustment to 
vesting assumptions is made in respect of market vesting conditions.

At each balance sheet date, the Group revises its estimate of the number of RSS nil-cost options that are expected to become exercisable.  
It recognises the impact of the revision of original estimates, if any, in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, and a 
corresponding adjustment is made to other reserves in shareholders’ equity over the remaining vesting period.

On exercise, the differences between the expense charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income and the actual cost to the 
Group, if any, is transferred to other reserves.

PENSIONS
The Group operates a defined contribution plan. On payment of contributions to the plan there is no further obligation for the Group. 
Contributions are recognised as employee benefits in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in the period when the services 
are rendered.

TAX
Income tax represents the sum of the tax currently payable and any deferred tax. The tax payable is calculated based on taxable profit for  
the period using tax rates and tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the year end reporting date and any adjustments to tax payable in 
respect of prior periods. Taxable profit for the period can differ from that reported in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income 
due to non-taxable income and certain items which are not tax deductible or which are deferred to subsequent periods. Tax provisions on the 
net change in unrealised gains/losses on investments classified as AFS are recognised in other comprehensive income or (loss).

Deferred tax is recognised on all temporary differences between the assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet and their tax base, 
except when the deferred tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill. Deferred tax assets or liabilities are accounted for using 
the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that realising the related tax benefit through future taxable 
profits is likely and are reassessed each year for recognition.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and 
when the deferred income taxes relate to the same fiscal authority.

Where the current estimated fair value of equity based compensation awards differs from the estimated fair value at the time of grant, adjusted 
where applicable for dividends, the related corporation tax and deferred tax charge or credit is recognised directly in other reserves.

OWN SHARES
Own shares include shares repurchased under share repurchase authorisations and held in treasury, plus shares repurchased and held in trust, 
for the purposes of employee equity based compensation schemes. Own shares are deducted from shareholders’ equity. No gain or loss is 
recognised on the purchase, sale, cancellation or issue of own shares and any consideration paid or received is recognised directly in equity.

100 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

RISK DISCLOSURES
For the year ended 31 December 2016

RISK DISCLOSURES: INTRODUCTION
The Group is exposed to risks from several sources. These include insurance risk, market risk, liquidity risk, credit risk, operational risk and 
strategic risk. The primary risk to the Group is insurance risk.

The primary objective of the Group’s ERM is to ensure that the capital resources held are matched to the risk profile of the Group and that 
the balance between risk and reward is considered as part of all key business decisions. The Group has formulated, and keeps under review, a 
risk appetite which is set by the Board of Directors. The Group’s appetite for risk will vary marginally from time to time to reflect the potential 
risks and rewards that present themselves. However, protecting the Group’s capital and providing investors with a superior risk-adjusted return 
over the long term are constants. The risk appetite of the Group is central to how the business is run and permeates into the risk appetites that 
the individual operating entity boards of directors have adopted. These risk appetites are expressed through detailed risk tolerances at both a 
Group and an operating entity level. Risk tolerances represent the maximum amount of capital, generally on a modeled basis, that the Group 
and its entities are prepared to expose to certain risks.

The Board of Directors is responsible for setting and monitoring the Group’s risk appetite and tolerances, whereas the individual entity boards 
of directors are responsible for setting and monitoring entity level risk tolerances. All risk tolerances are subject to at least an annual review 
and consideration by the respective boards of directors. The LHL Board and individual entity boards of directors review actual risk levels 
versus tolerances, emerging risks and any risk learning events at least quarterly. In addition, on at least a monthly basis, management reviews 
the output from SHARP in order to assess modeled potential losses against risk tolerances and ensure that risk levels are managed in 
accordance with them.

RISK AND RETURN COMMITTEE
The RRC seeks to optimise risk-adjusted return and facilitate the appropriate use of BLAST, including considering its effectiveness. It ensures 
that all key areas of risk are discussed according to a schedule that covers fortnightly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual reviews. The 
RRC meets fortnightly and is responsible for coordinating and overseeing ERM activities within the risk profile, appetites and tolerances set  
by the Group and individual entity boards of directors. The RRC includes the Group CEO and members from the finance, actuarial and 
underwriting functions. The CRO attends the meetings and reports on the RRC’s activities to the Group and individual entity boards of 
directors and the Risk Committee of Cathedral.

CHIEF RISK OFFICER
The primary role of the CRO is to facilitate the effective operation of ERM throughout the Group at all levels. The role includes but is not 
limited to the following responsibilities:

•  overall management of the risk management system;
•  drive ERM culture, ownership and execution on three levels: Board, executive management, and operationally within the business;
•  facilitate the identification, assessment, evaluation and management of existing and emerging risks by management and the Board;
•  ensure that these risks are given due consideration and are embedded within management’s and the Board’s oversight and decision 

making process;

•  be consulted, and opine, on policy in areas such as, but not limited to, underwriting, claims, investments, operations and capital 

management; and

•  provide timely, accurate, reliable, factual, objective and accessible information and analysis to guide, coach and support decision making.

The Group subscribes to a ‘three lines of defence’ model, the front line being risk ownership by business managers. Responsibility for the 
management of individual risks has been assigned to, and may form part of the performance objectives of, the risk owners within the business. 
Risk owners ensure that these risks and controls are consistent with their day-to-day processes and the entries made in the Group risk registers, 
which are a direct input into BLAST. The second line comprises the Risk Management team which is responsible for risk oversight. Within this, 
the CRO provides regular reports to the business outlining the status of the Group’s ERM activities and strategy, as well as formal reports to the 
Boards of Directors of the Group and the individual operating entities in this regard and is a member of the Risk Committee of Cathedral. 
The CRO ultimately has the right to report directly to the Group and entity regulators if they feel that management is not appropriately 
addressing areas of concern. Cathedral’s CRO provides formal reports to the CUL Board and Risk Committee. The third line of defence  
is Internal Audit who work very closely with the business and the Risk Management team in providing risk assurance.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

101

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

INTERNAL AUDIT
Internal Audit plays a key role in the Group’s ERM by providing an independent opinion regarding the accuracy and completeness of risks,  
in addition to verification of the effectiveness of controls and the consistency of their operation. Internal Audit’s roles and responsibilities  
are clearly defined through the Internal Audit Charter. The Head of Internal Audit reports directly to the Chairman of the Group Audit 
Committee. The CRO has input to the scope of each audit and receives a copy of each internal audit report. The CRO considers the findings 
and agreed actions in the context of the risk appetites and tolerances, plus the risk policies and risk management strategy of each area. The 
integration of Internal Audit and ERM into the business helps facilitate the Group’s protection of its assets and reputation.

ECONOMIC CAPITAL MODEL
The foundation of the Lancashire Companies’ risk-based capital approach to decision making is their economic capital model, BLAST, which 
is based on the widely accepted economic capital modeling tool, ReMetrica. Management uses BLAST primarily for monitoring its insurance 
risks. However, BLAST is also used to monitor other risks including market, credit and operational risks.

BLAST produces data in the form of a stochastic distribution for all classes, including non-elemental classes. The distribution includes the 
mean outcome and the result at various return periods, including very remote events. BLAST calculates projected financial outcomes for each 
insurance class, as well as the overall portfolio including diversification credit. Diversification credit arises as individual risks are generally not 
strongly correlated and are unlikely to all produce profits or losses at the same time. BLAST also measures the Group’s aggregate insurance 
exposures. It therefore helps senior management and the Board of Directors to determine the level of capital required to meet the combined 
risk from a wide range of categories. Assisted by BLAST, the Group seeks to achieve an improved risk-adjusted return over time.

BLAST is used in strategic underwriting decisions, as part of the Group’s annual business planning process, reforecasting and to assist in 
portfolio optimisation, taking account of inwards business and all major reinsurance purchases. Management also utilises BLAST in assessing 
the impact of strategic decisions on individual classes of business that the Group writes, or is considering writing, as well as the overall resulting 
financial impact to the Group. BLAST output, covering all of the risk groups to which the Group is exposed, is reviewed, including the 
anticipated loss curves, combined ratios and risk-adjusted profitability, to determine profitability and risk tolerance headroom by class.

BLAST covers the risks for LICL, LUK and Kinesis but does not cover Cathedral’s risk. Due to the particular requirements of Lloyd’s 
regulations, Cathedral has its own internal model which is vetted by Lloyd’s as part of its own capital and solvency regulations. To formulate  
an overall Group view of risk, exposures from Cathedral are combined with LICL, LUK and Kinesis.

The six primary risk categories, insurance risk, market risk, liquidity risk, credit risk, operational risk and strategic risk, are discussed in detail 
on pages 103 to 128.

102 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

A. INSURANCE RISK
The Group underwrites worldwide, predominantly short-tail, insurance and reinsurance contracts that transfer insurance risk, including risks 
exposed to both natural and man-made catastrophes. The Group’s exposure in connection with insurance contracts is, in the event of insured 
losses, whether premiums will be sufficient to cover the loss payments and expenses. Insurance and reinsurance markets are cyclical and 
premium rates and terms and conditions vary by line of business depending on market conditions and the stage of the cycle. Market 
conditions are impacted by capacity and recent loss events, and broader economic cycle impacts amongst other factors. The Group’s 
underwriters assess likely losses using their experience and knowledge of past loss experience, industry trends and current circumstances.  
This allows them to estimate the premiums sufficient to meet likely losses and expenses and desired levels of profitability consistent with the 
Group’s risk-adjusted RoE targets.

The Group considers insurance risk at an individual contract level, at a sector level, a geographic level and at an aggregate portfolio level.  
This ensures careful risk selection, limits on concentration and appropriate portfolio diversification are accomplished. The four principal 
classes of business for the Group, excluding the Lloyd’s segment, are Property, Energy, Marine and Aviation. These classes, plus the Group’s 
Lloyd’s segment, are deemed to be the Group’s five operating segments. The level of insurance risk tolerance per peril is set by the respective 
Boards of Directors at both the LHL and individual entity level.

A number of controls are deployed to manage the amount of insurance exposure assumed:

•  the Group has a rolling three-year strategic plan that helps establish the over-riding business goals that the Board of Directors aims 

to achieve;

•  a detailed business plan is produced annually, which includes expected premiums and combined ratios by class and considers risk-adjusted 

profitability, capital usage and requirements. The plan is approved by the Board of Directors and is monitored, reviewed and updated on an 
ongoing basis;

•  for Cathedral, the Syndicate business forecast and business plan are subject to review and approval by Lloyd’s;
•  BLAST, SHARP and Cathedral’s internal models are used to measure occurrence risks, aggregate risks and correlations between classes and 

other non-insurance risks, and the outputs and assumptions from BLAST and SHARP are reviewed periodically by the RRC;

•  each authorised class has a predetermined normal maximum line structure;
•  each underwriter has a clearly defined limit of underwriting authority;
•  the Group and individual operating entities have predetermined tolerances on probabilistic and deterministic losses of capital for certain 

single events;

•  risk levels versus tolerances are monitored on a regular basis;
•  a daily underwriting call is held for LICL and LUK to peer review insurance proposals, opportunities and emerging risks;
•  a daily post-binding review process with exception reporting to management based on underwriting authority operates at Cathedral;
•  sophisticated pricing and aggregation models are utilised in certain areas of the underwriting process, and are updated frequently;
•  BLAST and other modeling tools are deployed to model catastrophes and resultant losses to the portfolio and the Group; and
•  reinsurance may be purchased to mitigate both frequency and severity of losses on a treaty or facultative basis and to improve risk-adjusted 

RoE as modeled in BLAST.

Some of the Group’s business provides coverage for natural catastrophes (e.g. hurricanes, earthquakes and floods) and is subject to  
potential seasonal variation. A proportion of the Group’s business is exposed to large catastrophe losses in North America, Europe and  
Japan as a result of windstorms. The level of windstorm activity, and landfall thereof, during the North American, European and Japanese wind 
seasons may materially impact the Group’s loss experience. The North American and Japanese wind seasons are typically June to November 
and the European wind season November to March. The Group also bears exposure to large losses arising from other non-seasonal natural 
catastrophes, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, droughts, floods and tornadoes, from risk losses throughout the year and from war, terrorism and 
political risk and other events. The Group’s associate bears exposure to catastrophe losses and any significant loss event could potentially result 
in impairment in the value of the Group’s investment in associate.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

103

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

The Group’s exposures to certain peak zone elemental losses, as a percentage of tangible capital, including long-term debt, are shown below. 
Net loss estimates are before income tax and net of reinstatement premiums and outwards reinsurance. The exposure to catastrophe losses 
that would result in an impairment to the investment in associate is included in the figures below.

As at 31 December 2016
Zones
Gulf of Mexico1
Non-Gulf of Mexico – U.S.
California
Pan-European
Japan
Japan
Pacific North West

(1)  Landing hurricane from Florida to Texas.

As at 31 December 2015
Zones
Gulf of Mexico1
Non-Gulf of Mexico – U.S.
California
Pan-European
Japan
Japan
Pacific North West

(1)  Landing hurricane from Florida to Texas.

100 year return period  
estimated net loss

250 year return period  
estimated net loss

$m

% of tangible 
capital

$m

% of tangible 
capital

176.7
156.1
87.0
69.0
48.7
48.6
27.6

12.9
11.4
6.3
5.0
3.5
3.5
2.0

259.0
326.1
145.8
115.7
67.3
114.3
65.7

18.8
23.7
10.6
8.4
4.9
8.3
4.8

100 year return period  
estimated net loss

250 year return period  
estimated net loss

$m

% of tangible 
capital

$m

% of tangible 
capital

231.6
236.2
157.7
92.2
47.7
72.1
37.1

16.7
17.0
11.4
6.6
3.4
5.2
2.7

347.2
457.4
250.8
145.6
69.3
121.2
98.5

25.0
32.9
18.1
10.5
5.0
8.7
7.1

Perils
Hurricane
Hurricane
Earthquake
Windstorm
Typhoon
Earthquake
Earthquake

Perils
Hurricane
Hurricane
Earthquake
Windstorm
Typhoon
Earthquake
Earthquake

There can be no guarantee that the modeled assumptions and techniques deployed in calculating these figures are accurate. There could also 
be an unmodeled loss which exceeds these figures. In addition, any modeled loss scenario could cause a larger loss to capital than the 
modeled expectation.

Details of annual gross premiums written by geographic area of risks insured are provided below:

U.S. and Canada
Worldwide offshore
Worldwide, including the U.S. and Canada1
Europe
Far East
Worldwide, excluding the U.S. and Canada2
Middle East
Rest of world
Total

2016

2015

$m
179.7
161.1
115.6
46.9
29.2
15.4
13.5
72.5
633.9

%
28.4
25.5
18.2
7.4
4.6
2.4
2.1
11.4
100.0

$m
176.1
153.2
135.6
48.9
31.2
18.2
8.0
69.9
641.1

%
27.5
23.9
21.2
7.6
4.9
2.8
1.2
10.9
100.0

(1)  Worldwide, including the U.S. and Canada, comprises insurance and reinsurance contracts that insure or reinsure risks in more than one geographic area.
(2)  Worldwide, excluding the U.S. and Canada, comprises insurance and reinsurance contracts that insure or reinsure risks in more than one geographic area, but that specifically exclude the U.S. and Canada.

104 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Details of annual gross premiums written by business segment are provided below:

Property
Lloyd’s
Energy
Marine
Aviation
Total

2016

2015

$m
219.5
215.0
126.0
37.2
36.2
633.9

%
34.6
33.9
19.9
5.9
5.7
100.0

$m
197.2
247.7
112.0
47.6
36.6
641.1

%
30.8
38.6
17.5
7.4
5.7
100.0

Further details of the gross premiums written and the risks associated with each of these five principal business segments are described on the 
following pages.

I. PROPERTY
Gross premiums written, for the year:

Property catastrophe excess of loss
Property political risk
Terrorism
Property retrocession
Property risk excess of loss
Other property
Total

2016 
$m
99.8
44.1
41.1
12.8
11.3
10.4
219.5

2015 
$m
90.6
33.3
43.8
13.6
10.0
5.9
197.2

Property catastrophe excess of loss covers elemental risks and is written on an excess of loss treaty basis. The property catastrophe excess of loss 
portfolio is written within the U.S. and also internationally. Cover is offered for specific perils and regions or countries.

Property political risk cover is written either ground-up or on an excess of loss basis. Coverage that the Group provides in the political risk 
book is split between confiscation perils coverage and sovereign/quasi-sovereign obligor coverage. Confiscation perils coverage protects 
against CEND and may be extended to include other perils. Sovereign/quasi-sovereign obligors coverage protects against the non-payment  
or non-honouring of an obligation by a sovereign or quasi-sovereign entity. Cover is provided to medium to large commercial and industrial 
clients as well as bank and commodity trading clients. The term of these contracts is often multi-year reflecting the term of the underlying 
exposures. The Group does not provide cover against purely private obligor credit risk.

Terrorism business can be written either ground-up or for primary or excess layers, with cover provided for U.S. and worldwide property risks, 
but typically excluding nuclear, chemical, biological and cyber coverage in most territories. Cover is generally provided to medium to large 
commercial and industrial enterprises. Policies are typically written for scheduled locations and exposure is controlled by setting limits on 
aggregate exposure within a ‘blast zone’ radius. The term of these contracts is often multi-year reflecting the term of the underlying exposures. 
Some national pools are also written, which may include nuclear, chemical and biological coverage and may have an element of life coverage.

Property retrocession is written on an excess of loss basis through treaty arrangements and covers elemental risks. Cover may be on a 
worldwide or regional basis and may cover specific risks or all catastrophe perils. Coverage may be given on a UNL basis, meaning that loss 
payments are linked directly to the ceding company’s own loss, or on an ILW basis, meaning that loss payments are linked to the overall 
industry insured loss as measured by independent third-party loss index providers.

Property risk excess of loss is written on an excess of loss basis through UNL treaty arrangements, predominantly covering fire and allied perils 
in addition to natural catastrophe exposure. The portfolio is written on a worldwide basis, with particular focus on the U.S. market.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

105

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

The Group is exposed to large natural catastrophe losses, such as windstorm and earthquake loss, primarily from assuming property 
catastrophe excess of loss and property retrocession portfolio risks. Exposure to such events is controlled and measured by setting limits on 
aggregate exposures in certain classes per geographic zone and through loss modeling. The accuracy of the latter exposure analysis is limited 
by the quality of data and the effectiveness of the modeling. It is possible that a catastrophic event significantly exceeds the expected modeled 
event loss. The Group’s appetite and exposure guidelines for large losses are set out on pages 103 and 104.

Reinsurance may be purchased to mitigate exposures to large natural catastrophe losses in the U.S., Canada and worldwide with certain 
exclusions. Reinsurance may also be purchased to reduce the Group’s worldwide exposure to large risk losses. Reinsurance is typically 
purchased on an excess of loss basis, however ILWs or quota share arrangements may be entered into.

II. LLOYD’S
Gross premiums written, for the year:

Property reinsurance
Property direct and facultative
Aviation and satellite
Marine cargo
Energy
Terrorism
Contingency
Total

2016 
$m
88.6
56.1
24.3
21.2
14.9
6.3
3.6
215.0

2015 
$m
92.9
66.2
28.5
29.6
20.1
6.0
4.4
247.7

Property reinsurance predominantly includes property catastrophe excess of loss, property per risk excess of loss and property retrocession 
lines of business. Property catastrophe excess of loss and property per risk excess of loss provide protection for elemental and non-elemental 
risks and are written on an excess of loss treaty basis within the U.S. and internationally. The U.S. property catastrophe excess of loss book is 
particularly focused on regional clients. Property retrocession is written on an excess of loss basis through treaty arrangements. It provides 
coverage for elemental risks when sold on a catastrophe basis and both elemental and non-elemental risks when sold on a per risk retrocession 
basis. Protection is generally given on a regional basis and may cover specific property risks or all catastrophe perils. It is also generally written 
on an UNL basis, meaning loss payments are linked to the ceding company’s own loss.

Property direct and facultative is a worldwide book of largely commercial property business, written both in the open market and under 
delegated authorities. The account spans small individual locations to Fortune 500 accounts but with a bias towards small to medium-sized 
risks. Policies are generally provided both for non-elemental and elemental perils, although not all risks include both elemental and non-
elemental coverage. Coverage is generally written on a full value, primary or excess of loss basis, although the very largest accounts are 
currently seldom written at the primary level.

Aviation and satellite includes aviation reinsurance, aviation war, general aviation and aviation satellite lines of business. Aviation reinsurance 
provides excess of loss catastrophe cover to the insurers of the world’s major airlines and aircraft and aircraft manufacturers. This includes 
cover for the aircraft themselves as well as losses arising from passenger and third-party liability claims against airlines and/or manufacturers. 
Aviation war covers loss or damage to aviation assets from war, terrorism and similar causes. General aviation covers fixed wing and rotor wing 
aircraft, typically with 50 passenger seats or less, and covers both commercial and private clients. A significant part of the aviation satellite 
account is written through Satec, a specialist underwriting agency, to which underwriting authority is delegated. Satellite insurance is 
purchased by launch operators, satellite manufacturers and satellite operators to protect against launch or deployment failure or subsequent 
failure in orbit. Policies are typically written for launch plus one year in orbit. Thereafter orbit cover is normally provided on an annual basis.

Marine cargo is an international account and is written either on a direct basis or by way of reinsurance. It covers the (re)insurance of 
commodities or goods in transit. Typically, transit cover is provided on an all-risks basis for marine perils for the full value of the goods 
concerned, although higher value or capacity business may be written on a layered basis. Static cover is also provided for losses to cargo, from 
both elemental and non-elemental causes, whilst static at points along its route. In addition, the cargo account can include specie and fine art, 
vault risks, artwork on exhibition and marine war business relating to cargo in transit.

106 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Energy risks are written mostly on a direct basis and may be ground-up or for primary or excess layers on either a first loss or full value basis. 
Worldwide offshore energy policies are typically package policies which may include physical damage, well control, business interruption and 
third-party liability sections. Coverage can include fire and explosion and elemental risks. Individual assets covered can be high-value and are 
therefore mostly written on a subscription basis, meaning that coverage is placed with multiple risk carriers. Construction energy contracts 
generally cover all risks of platforms, FPSO and drilling units under construction at yard and offshore, during towing and installation. Onshore 
construction contracts are generally not written.

Terrorism business can be written either ground-up or for primary or excess layers, with cover provided for U.S. and worldwide property risks, 
but typically excluding nuclear, chemical, biological and cyber coverage in most territories. Cover is generally provided to medium to large 
commercial and industrial enterprises. Policies are typically written for scheduled locations and exposure is controlled by setting limits on 
aggregate exposure within a ‘blast zone’ radius. The term of these contracts may be multi-year, reflecting the term of the underlying 
exposures. Reinsurance may be purchased on a facultative or treaty basis.

Contingency focuses on the sports, leisure and entertainment industries, with a significant emphasis on the music industry. It provides 
coverage for non-appearance and event cancellation. Generally business is written on a full value basis.

Reinsurance may be purchased to reduce the exposure to large risk losses including large natural catastrophe losses in the U.S., Canada and 
worldwide with certain exclusions. Reinsurance may also be purchased to mitigate an accumulation of smaller, attritional losses. Reinsurance 
may be purchased on a facultative, excess of loss treaty or proportional treaty basis.

III. ENERGY
Gross premiums written, for the year:

Worldwide offshore energy
Gulf of Mexico offshore energy
Construction energy
Energy liabilities
Other energy
Total

2016 
$m
88.7
20.1
4.8
3.5
8.9
126.0

2015 
$m
92.8
6.1
2.8
3.3
7.0
112.0

Energy risks are written mostly on a direct basis and may be ground-up or for primary or excess layers on either a first loss or full value basis. 
Worldwide offshore energy policies are typically package policies which may include physical damage, business interruption and third-party 
liability sections. Coverage can include fire and explosion and elemental risks. Individual assets covered can be high-value and are therefore 
mostly written on a subscription basis, meaning that coverage is placed with multiple risk carriers.

Gulf of Mexico offshore energy programmes cover elemental and non-elemental risks. Most policies have sub-limits on coverage for  
elemental losses. These programmes are exposed to Gulf of Mexico windstorms. Exposure to such events is controlled and measured through 
loss modeling. The accuracy of this exposure analysis is limited by the quality of data and the effectiveness of the modeling. It is possible that a 
catastrophic event significantly exceeds the expected modeled event loss. The Group’s appetite and exposure guidelines to large losses are set 
out on pages 103 and 104.

Construction energy contracts generally cover all risks of platform and drilling units under construction at yards and offshore, during towing 
and installation. Onshore construction contracts are generally not written.

The Group writes energy liability business on a stand-alone basis. Unlike the liability contained within the energy packages that Lancashire 
writes, stand-alone energy liability is written on an excess of loss basis only. Coverage is worldwide and provides coverage for all kinds of 
damages and loss to third parties. Coverage is generally restricted to offshore assets.

Reinsurance protection may be purchased to protect a portion of loss from elemental and non-elemental energy claims, and from the 
accumulation of smaller, attritional losses. Reinsurance is typically purchased on an excess of loss basis but, from time to time, quota share 
arrangements may be entered into. Reinsurance may be purchased on a facultative or treaty basis.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

107

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

IV. MARINE
Gross premiums written, for the year:

Marine hull and total loss
Marine builders’ risk
Marine P&I clubs
Marine hull war
Other marine
Total

2016 
$m
13.1
8.7
8.4
4.1
2.9
37.2

2015 
$m
19.9
6.5
13.0
6.0
2.2
47.6

With the exception of the marine P&I clubs, where excess layers are written, most policies are written on a ground-up basis. Marine hull and 
total loss is generally written on a direct basis and covers marine risks on a worldwide basis, primarily for physical damage. Marine builders’ risk 
covers the building of ocean going vessels in specialised yards worldwide and their testing and commissioning. Marine P&I clubs is mostly the 
reinsurance of the International Group of Protection and Indemnity Clubs and covers marine liabilities. Marine hull war is mostly direct 
insurance of loss of vessels from war, piracy or terrorist attack, with a very limited amount of facultative reinsurance.

The largest expected exposure in the marine class is from physical loss rather than from elemental loss events, although there is exposure to 
elemental perils and to the costs for removal of wreck.

Reinsurance may be purchased to reduce the Group’s exposure to both large risk losses and an accumulation of smaller, attritional losses. 
Reinsurance is typically purchased on a treaty excess of loss basis.

V. AVIATION
Gross premiums written, for the year:

AV52
Aviation satellite
Other aviation
Total

2016 
$m
24.0
9.8
2.4
36.2

2015 
$m
23.5
12.2
0.9
36.6

AV52 is written on a risk attaching excess of loss basis and provides coverage for third-party liability, excluding own passenger liability, resulting 
from acts of war or hijack of aircraft. Cover excludes countries whose governments provide a backstop coverage, but does, since 2014, include 
some U.S. commercial airlines.

Aviation satellite cover is written on a full value, primary or excess of loss basis and can provide cover for satellite launch, satellite in-orbit or 
both satellite launch and in-orbit. Coverage for in-orbit can be provided on an annual or multi-year basis and both launch and in-orbit can 
cover loss of earnings as well as physical damage.

Reinsurance may be purchased to mitigate exposures to an AV52 event loss. Reinsurance is typically purchased on a treaty excess of loss basis.

108 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

REINSURANCE
The Group, in the normal course of business and in accordance with its risk management practices, seeks to reduce certain types of loss  
that may arise from events that could cause unfavourable underwriting results, and to improve the modeled risk-adjusted RoE by entering into 
reinsurance arrangements. Reinsurance does not relieve the Group of its obligations to policyholders. Under the Group’s reinsurance security 
policy, reinsurers are assessed and approved as appropriate security based on their financial strength ratings, amongst other factors. The RSC 
considers reinsurers that are not rated or do not fall within the predefined rating categories on a case-by-case basis, and would usually require 
collateral to be posted to support such obligations. There are specific guidelines for these collateralised contracts. The RSC monitors its 
reinsurers on an ongoing basis and formally reviews the Group’s reinsurance arrangements at least quarterly.

Reinsurance protection is typically purchased on an excess of loss basis, however it may also include ILW covers or quota share arrangements. 
The mix of reinsurance cover is dependent on the specific loss mitigation requirements, market conditions and available capacity. Reinsurance 
may also be purchased to optimise the risk-adjusted return of the underwriting portfolio. The structure varies between types of peril and 
sub-class. The Group regularly reviews its catastrophe and other exposures and may purchase reinsurance in order to reduce the Group’s net 
exposure to a large natural catastrophe loss and/or to reduce net exposures to other large losses. The Group can purchase both facultative 
and treaty reinsurance with varying cover and attachment points. The reinsurance coverage is not intended to be available to meet all potential 
loss circumstances. The Group will retain some losses, as the cover purchased is unlikely to transfer the totality of the Group’s exposure.  
Any loss amount which exceeds the programme would be retained by the Group. Some parts of the reinsurance programme have limited 
reinstatements, therefore the number of claims which may be recovered from second or subsequent losses in those particular circumstances 
is limited.

INSURANCE LIABILITIES
For most insurance and reinsurance companies, the most significant judgement made by management is the estimation of losses and loss 
adjustment expenses. The estimation of the ultimate liability arising from claims made under insurance and reinsurance contracts is a critical 
estimate for the Group, particularly given the nature of the business written.

Under GAAP, loss reserves are not permitted until the occurrence of an event which may give rise to a claim. As a result, only loss reserves 
applicable to losses incurred up to the reporting date are established, with no allowance for the provision of a contingency reserve to account 
for expected future losses or for the emergence of new types of latent claims. Claims arising from future events can be expected to require the 
establishment of substantial reserves from time to time. All reserves are reported on an undiscounted basis.

Losses and loss adjustment expenses are maintained to cover the Group’s estimated liability for both reported and unreported claims. 
Reserving methodologies that calculate a point estimate for the ultimate losses are utilised, and then a range is developed around these  
point estimates. The point estimate represents management’s best estimate of ultimate loss and loss adjustment expenses. The Group’s 
internal actuaries review the reserving assumptions and methodologies on a quarterly basis with loss estimates being subject to a semi-annual 
corroborative review by independent actuaries. This independent review is presented to the Group’s Audit Committee. The Group has also 
established Reserve Committees at the operating entity level, which have responsibility for the review of large claims and IBNR levels, their 
development and any changes in reserving methodology and assumptions.

The extent of reliance on management’s judgement in the reserving process differs as to whether the business is insurance or reinsurance, 
whether it is short-tail or long-tail and whether the business is written on an excess of loss or on a pro-rata basis. Over a typical annual period, 
the Group expects to write the large majority of programmes on a direct excess of loss basis. The Group does not currently write a significant 
amount of long-tail business.

INSURANCE VERSUS REINSURANCE
Loss reserve calculations for direct insurance business are not precise in that they deal with the inherent uncertainty of assumptions  
regarding future reporting and development patterns, frequency and severity trends, claims settlement practices, potential changes in the  
legal environment and other factors, such as inflation. These estimates and judgements are based on numerous factors and may be revised  
as additional experience or other data becomes available or reviewed as new or improved methodologies are developed or as current laws  
or regulations change.

Furthermore, as a broker market reinsurer, management must rely on loss information reported to brokers by other insurers and their loss 
adjusters, who must estimate their own losses at the policy level, often based on incomplete and changing information. The information 
management receives varies by cedant and may include paid losses, estimated case reserves and an estimated provision for IBNR reserves. 
Additionally, reserving practices and the quality of data reporting may vary among ceding companies, which adds further uncertainty to the 
estimation of the ultimate losses.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

109

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

SHORT-TAIL VERSUS LONG-TAIL
In general, claims relating to short-tail risks, such as the majority of risks underwritten by the Group, are reported more promptly than those 
relating to long-tail risks, including the majority of casualty risks. However, the timeliness of reporting can be affected by such factors as the 
nature of the event causing the loss, the location of the loss, and whether the losses are from policies in force with insureds, primary insurers, 
reinsurers or vendor binding authorities.

EXCESS OF LOSS VERSUS PROPORTIONAL
For excess of loss contracts, which make up the majority of the Group’s business, management are aided by the fact that each policy has  
a defined limit of liability arising from one event. Once that limit has been reached, there is no further exposure to additional losses from  
that policy for the same event. For proportional business, an initial estimated loss and loss expense ratio is generally used. This is based upon 
information provided by the insured or ceding company and/or their broker and management’s historical experience of that treaty, if any, 
and the estimate is adjusted as actual experience becomes known.

TIME LAGS
There is a time lag inherent in reporting from the original claimant to the primary insurer or binding authority holder to the broker and  
then to the reinsurer. Also, the combination of low claims frequency and high severity makes the available data more volatile and less useful for 
predicting ultimate losses. In the case of proportional contracts, reliance is placed on an analysis of a contract’s historical experience, industry 
information, and the professional judgement of underwriters in estimating reserves for these contracts. In addition, if available, reliance is 
placed partially on ultimate loss ratio forecasts as reported by insureds or cedants, which are normally subject to a quarterly or six-month lag.

UNCERTAINTY
As a result of the time lag described above, an estimation must be made of IBNR reserves, which consist of a provision for additional 
development in excess of the case reserves reported by insureds or ceding companies, as well as a provision for claims which have occurred  
but which have not yet been reported by insureds or ceding companies. Due to the degree of reliance that is necessarily placed on insureds  
or ceding companies for claims reporting, the associated time lag, the low frequency/high severity nature of much of the business that the 
Group underwrites, and the varying reserving practices among ceding companies, reserve estimates are highly dependent on management 
judgement and are therefore uncertain. During the loss settlement period, which may be years in duration, additional facts regarding 
individual claims and trends often will become known, and current laws and case law may change as well as regulatory directives, with  
a consequent impact on reserving.

For certain catastrophic events there are greater uncertainties underlying the assumptions and associated estimated reserves for losses and loss 
adjustment expenses. Complexity resulting from problems such as policy coverage issues, multiple events affecting one geographic area and 
the resulting impact on claims adjusting (including the allocation of claims to the specific event and the effect of demand surge on the cost  
of building materials and labour)by, and communications from, insureds or ceding companies, can cause delays to the timing with which the 
Group is notified of changes to loss estimates.

As at 31 December 2016, management’s estimates for IBNR represented 34.6 per cent of total net loss reserves (31 December 2015 – 35.2 per 
cent). The majority of the estimate relates to potential claims on non-elemental risks where timing delays in insured or cedant reporting may 
mean losses could have occurred of which the Group was not made aware by the balance sheet date.

110 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

B. MARKET RISK
The Group is at risk of loss due to movements in market factors. The main risks include:

i. 

Insurance risk;

ii.  Investment risk;

iii.  Debt risk; and

iv.  Currency risk.

These risks, and the management thereof, are described below.

I. INSURANCE RISK
The Group is exposed to insurance market risk from several sources, including the following:

•  the advent or continuation of a soft market, which may result in a stabilisation or decline in premium rates and/or terms and conditions for 

certain lines, or across all lines;

•  the actions and reactions of key competitors, which may directly result in volatility in premium volumes and rates, fee levels and other 

input costs;

•  market events, including unusual inflation in rates, may result in a limit in the availability of cover, causing political intervention or 

national remedies;

•  failure to maintain broker, binding authority and client relationships, leading to a limited or substandard choice of risks inconsistent with 

the Group’s risk appetite;

•  changes in regulation including capital, governance or licensing requirements; and
•  changes in the geopolitical environment including Great Britain’s impending exit from the EU and the implications for business 

passporting within the EEA.

The most important method to mitigate insurance market risk is to maintain strict underwriting standards. The Group manages insurance 
market risk in numerous ways, including the following:

•  reviews and amends underwriting plans and outlook as necessary;
•  reduces exposure to market sectors where conditions have reached unattractive levels;
•  purchases appropriate, cost-effective reinsurance cover to mitigate exposures;
•  closely monitors changes in rates and terms and conditions;
•  ensures through continuous capital management that it does not allow surplus capital to drive underwriting appetite;
•  holds a daily underwriting meeting for LICL and LUK to discuss, inter alia, market conditions and opportunities;
•  reviews all new and renewal business post-underwriting for Cathedral;
•  regularly reviews output from BLAST to assess up-to-date profitability of classes and sectors;
•  holds a quarterly Underwriting and Underwriting Risk Committee meeting to review underwriting strategy;
•  holds a fortnightly RRC meeting to monitor estimated exposures to peak zone elemental losses and RDSs; and
•  holds regular meetings with regulators.

Insurance contract liabilities are not directly sensitive to the level of market interest rates, as they are undiscounted and contractually  
non-interest bearing.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

111

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

II. INVESTMENT RISK
Movements in investments resulting from changes in interest and inflation rates and currency exchange rates, amongst other factors, may lead 
to an adverse impact on the value of the Group’s investment portfolio. Investment guidelines are established by the Investment Committee  
of the Board of Directors to manage this risk. Investment guidelines set parameters within which the Group’s external investment managers 
must operate. Important parameters include guidelines on permissible asset classes, duration ranges, credit quality, currency, maturity, sectors, 
geographical, sovereign and issuer exposures. Compliance with guidelines is monitored on a monthly basis. Any adjustments to the investment 
guidelines are approved by the Investment Committee and the Board of Directors.

The Group’s fixed maturity portfolios are managed by four external investment managers. The Group also has a diversified low volatility 
portfolio of multi-strategy hedge funds, and a small equity portfolio. The performance of the managers is monitored on an ongoing basis.

Within the Group guidelines is a subset of guidelines for the portion of funds required to meet near-term obligations and cash flow needs 
following an extreme event. The subset of guidelines adds a further degree of requirements, including fewer allowable asset classes, higher 
credit quality, shorter duration and higher liquidity. The primary objectives for this portion of assets are capital preservation and providing 
liquidity to meet insurance and other near-term obligations. In addition to cash managed internally, funds held in the investment portfolio  
to cover this potential liability are designated as the ‘core’ portfolio and the portfolio duration is matched to the duration of the insurance 
liabilities, within an agreed range. The core portfolio is invested in fixed maturity securities, fixed maturity funds and cash and cash 
equivalents. The core portfolio may, at times, contain assets significantly in excess of those required to meet insurance liabilities or other 
defined funding needs.

Assets in excess of those required to be held in the core portfolio are typically held in the ‘core plus’ or the ‘surplus’ portfolios. The core plus 
portfolio is invested in fixed maturity securities and cash and cash equivalents. The surplus portfolio is invested in fixed maturity securities, 
principal protected equity linked notes, derivative instruments, cash and cash equivalents, equity securities and hedge funds. In general,  
the duration of the surplus portfolio is slightly longer than the core or core plus portfolio, while maintaining a focus on high quality assets.

The Group reviews the composition, duration and asset allocation of its investment portfolio on a regular basis in order to respond to changes 
in interest rates and other market conditions. If certain asset classes are anticipated to produce a higher return within management’s risk 
tolerance, an adjustment in asset allocation may be made. Conversely, if the risk profile is expected to move outside tolerance levels, 
adjustments may be made to reduce the risks in the portfolio.

The investment portfolio is currently structured to perform better in a risk-on environment in order to mitigate the impact of a potential rise 
in interest rates. The Group endeavours to limit losses in risk-on, risk-off and interest rate hike scenarios. The Group models various periods  
of significant stress in order to better understand the investment portfolio’s risks and exposures. The scenarios represent what could and most 
likely will occur (albeit not in the exact form of the scenarios, which are based on historic periods of volatility). The Group also monitors the 
portfolio impact of more severe disaster scenarios consisting of extreme shocks.

The IRRC meets quarterly to ensure that the Group’s strategic and tactical investment actions are consistent with investment risk preferences, 
appetite, risk and return objectives and tolerances. The IRRC also helps further develop the risk tolerances to be incorporated into the 
ERM framework.

112 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

The investment mix of the fixed maturity portfolios is as follows:

Core

Core plus

Surplus

Total

As at 31 December 2016
 – Short-term investments
 – Fixed maturity funds
 – U.S. treasuries
 – Other government bonds
 – U.S. municipal bonds
 – U.S. government agency debt
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage 

backed securities

 – Non-agency mortgage backed 

securities

 – Non-agency commercial mortgage 

backed securities

 – Bank loans
 – Corporate bonds
Total fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Total fixed maturity securities

As at 31 December 2015
 – Short-term investments
 – Fixed maturity funds
 – U.S. treasuries
 – Other government bonds
 – U.S. municipal bonds
 – U.S. government agency debt
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage 

backed securities

 – Non-agency mortgage backed 

securities

 – Non-agency commercial mortgage 

backed securities

 – Bank loans
 – Corporate bonds
Total fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Total fixed maturity securities

$m
–
14.5
120.6
15.6
0.6
17.1
13.4

10.3

4.5

3.0
–
151.6
351.2
–
351.2

%
–
1.0
8.1
1.0
–
1.2
0.9

0.7

0.3

0.2
–
10.1
23.5
–
23.5

$m
1.3
–
158.2
36.3
–
34.9
69.9

30.5

7.9

2.9
–
292.3
634.2
–
634.2

%
0.1
–
10.6
2.4
–
2.3
4.7

2.0

0.5

0.2
–
19.5
42.3
–
42.3

$m
4.0
–
26.7
14.7
0.5
29.9
26.9

77.5

1.9

3.7
121.6
153.4
460.8
51.6
512.4

%
0.3
–
1.8
1.0
–
2.0
1.8

5.2

0.1

0.2
8.1
10.2
30.7
3.5
34.2

$m
5.3
14.5
305.5
66.6
1.1
81.9
110.2

118.3

14.3

9.6
121.6
597.3
1,446.2
51.6
1,497.8

Core

Core plus

Surplus

Total

$m
7.5
11.4
178.4
24.4
0.6
2.9
16.1

20.2

5.5

4.1
–
182.4
453.5
–
453.5

%
0.5
0.7
11.1
1.5
–
0.2
1.0

1.3

0.3

0.3
–
11.4
28.3
–
28.3

$m
13.1
–
157.5
22.6
–
1.0
66.3

39.0

12.1

11.5
–
278.9
602.0
–
602.0

%
0.8
–
9.8
1.4
–
–
4.1

2.4

0.8

0.7
–
17.4
37.4
–
37.4

$m
–
–
57.4
18.4
4.6
–
31.5

84.6

4.2

13.2
115.0
192.5
521.4
24.8
546.2

%
–
–
3.6
1.2
0.3
–
2.0

5.3

0.3

0.8
7.2
12.0
32.7
1.6
34.3

$m
20.6
11.4
393.3
65.4
5.2
3.9
113.9

143.8

21.8

28.8
115.0
653.8
1,576.9
24.8
1,601.7

%
0.4
1.0
20.5
4.4
–
5.5
7.4

7.9

0.9

0.6
8.1
39.8
96.5
3.5
100.0

%
1.3
0.7
24.5
4.1
0.3
0.2
7.1

9.0

1.4

1.8
7.2
40.8
98.4
1.6
100.0

www.lancashiregroup.com 

113

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

Bank loans, corporate bonds, fixed maturity securities at FVTPL and other government bonds by country are as follows:

Financials 
$m
168.9
41.5
13.9
16.4
8.7
23.4
5.0
6.6
9.6
1.8
1.0
–
2.8
–
–
1.8
301.4

Financials 
$m
126.6
48.8
19.4
19.2
26.8
14.2
5.2
15.4
8.0
11.2
12.2
–
–
–
–
2.0
309.0

Other 
industries 
$m
388.2
10.3
13.2
17.7
8.3
4.0
9.3
0.5
–
7.1
–
4.8
1.5
–
–
4.2
469.1

Other 
industries 
$m
372.9
27.7
15.3
10.5
5.7
8.4
13.2
5.1
0.7
2.1
0.1
11.8
4.8
1.0
–
5.3
484.6

Other 
government 
bonds 
$m
–
2.0
15.5
7.4
12.9
–
4.2
4.2
–
–
5.3
–
–
2.8
2.4
9.9
66.6

Other 
government 
bonds 
$m
–
1.0
13.8
7.5
4.2
7.8
10.8
–
5.3
–
0.2
–
–
3.5
3.4
7.9
65.4

Total1
$m
557.1
51.8
27.1
34.1
17.0
27.4
14.3
7.1
9.6
8.9
1.0
4.8
4.3
–
–
6.0
770.5

Total1
$m
499.5
76.5
34.7
29.7
32.5
22.6
18.4
20.5
8.7
13.3
12.3
11.8
4.8
1.0
–
7.3
793.6

Total2
$m
557.1
53.8
42.6
41.5
29.9
27.4
18.5
11.3
9.6
8.9
6.3
4.8
4.3
2.8
2.4
15.9
837.1

Total2
$m
499.5
77.5
48.5
37.2
36.7
30.4
29.2
20.5
14.0
13.3
12.5
11.8
4.8
4.5
3.4
15.2
859.0

As at 31 December 2016
United States
United Kingdom
Canada
Netherlands
Germany
Australia
France
Sweden
Japan
Luxembourg
Norway
Hong Kong
Switzerland
Russian Federation
Denmark
Other
Total

(1)  Includes bank loans, corporate bonds and fixed maturity securities at FVTPL.
(2)  Includes bank loans, corporate bonds, fixed maturity securities at FVTPL and other government bonds.

As at 31 December 2015
United States
United Kingdom
Canada
Netherlands
Australia
France
Germany
Japan
Norway
Switzerland
Sweden
Luxembourg
Hong Kong
Mexico
Russian Federation
Other
Total

(1)  Includes bank loans, corporate bonds and fixed maturity securities at FVTPL.
(2)  Includes bank loans, corporate bonds, fixed maturity securities at FVTPL and other government bonds.

114 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

The sector allocation of bank loans, corporate bonds and fixed maturity securities at FVTPL is as follows:

As at 31 December
Industrial
Financial
Utility
Supranationals
Total

2016

2015

$m
425.4
300.9
43.7
0.5
770.5

%
55.2
39.1
5.7
–
100.0

$m
457.9
308.5
26.7
0.5
793.6

%
57.7
38.9
3.4
–
100.0

The Group’s net asset value is directly impacted by movements in the value of investments held. Values can be impacted by movements in 
interest rates, credit ratings, exchange rates and economic environment and outlook.

The Group’s investment portfolio is mainly comprised of fixed maturity securities and cash and cash equivalents. The fixed maturity funds are 
overseas deposits held by Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010 in trust for the benefit of the policyholders in those overseas jurisdictions. They 
consist of high quality, short duration fixed maturity securities. The Group also has small equity and hedge fund portfolios. The estimated fair 
value of the Group’s fixed maturity portfolio is generally inversely correlated to movements in market interest rates. If market interest rates fall, 
the fair value of the Group’s fixed maturity securities would tend to rise and vice versa.

The sensitivity of the price of fixed maturity securities, and certain derivatives, to movements in interest rates is indicated by their duration. 
The greater a security’s duration, the greater its price volatility to movements in interest rates. The sensitivity of the Group’s fixed maturity  
and derivative investment portfolio to interest rate movements is detailed below, assuming linear movements in interest rates:

As at 31 December
Immediate shift in yield (basis points)
100
75
50
25
(25)
(50)
(75)
(100)

2016

$m

(28.7)
(21.6)
(14.4)
(7.2)
7.8
15.6
23.4
31.2

%

(1.9)
(1.4)
(1.0)
(0.5)
0.5
1.0
1.6
2.1

2015

$m

(25.5)
(19.1)
(12.7)
(6.4)
6.8
13.5
20.3
27.1

%

(1.6)
(1.2)
(0.8)
(0.4)
0.4
0.8
1.3
1.7

The Group mitigates interest rate risk on the investment portfolio by establishing and monitoring duration ranges in its investment guidelines. 
The Group may manage duration through the use of interest rate futures and swaptions from time to time. The duration of the core portfolio 
is matched to the modeled duration of the insurance reserves, within a permitted range. The permitted duration range for the core plus 
portfolio is between zero and four years and the surplus portfolio is between one and five years.

The total durations of the externally managed portfolios which are comprised of fixed maturity, cash and cash equivalents and certain 
derivatives, are as follows:

As at 31 December
Core portfolio
Core plus portfolio
Surplus portfolio1
Overall external portfolio1

(1)  Including duration overlay.

2016 
years
1.6
1.8
2.2
1.9

2015 
years
1.7
1.7
1.3
1.6

The overall duration for fixed maturity, managed cash and cash equivalents and certain derivatives is 1.8 years (2015 – 1.5 years).

In addition to duration management, the Group uses VaR on a monthly basis to measure potential losses in the estimated fair values of its cash 
and invested assets and to understand and monitor risk. The VaR calculation is performed using variance/covariance risk modeling to capture 
the cash flows and embedded optionality of the portfolio. Securities are valued individually using standard market pricing models. These 
security valuations serve as the input to many risk analytics, including full valuation risk analyses, as well as parametric methods that rely  
on option adjusted risk sensitivities to approximate the risk and return profiles of the portfolio.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

115

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

The principal VaR measure that is produced is an annual VaR at the 99th percentile confidence level. Under normal conditions, the portfolio is 
not expected to lose more than the VaR metric listed in the table below, 99 per cent of the time over a one-year time horizon.

The Group’s annual VaR calculations are as follows:

As at 31 December
99th percentile confidence level1

(1)  Including the impact of internal foreign exchange hedges.

2016

2015

% of 
shareholders’ 
equity
2.8

$m
33.3

% of 
shareholders’ 
equity
2.4

$m
28.9

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Group’s investment guidelines permit the investment managers to utilise exchange-traded futures and options contracts, and OTC 
instruments including interest rate swaps, credit default swaps, interest rate swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are 
used for yield enhancement, duration management, interest rate and foreign currency exposure management or to obtain an exposure to a 
particular financial market. These positions are monitored regularly. The Group may also use OTC or exchange traded managed derivatives  
to mitigate interest rate risk and foreign currency exposures. The Group principally has exposure to derivatives related to the following types 
of risks: foreign currency risk, interest rate risk and credit risk.

The Group currently invests in the following derivative financial instruments:

a.  Futures;
b.  Options;
c.  Forward foreign currency contracts; and
d.  Swaps.

The net gains or losses on the Group’s derivative financial instruments recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income are 
as follows:

As at 31 December 2016
Treasury futures
Forward foreign currency contracts
Interest rate swaps
Total

As at 31 December 2015
Treasury futures
Forward foreign currency contracts
Interest rate swaps
Total

Net realised 
(losses) 
$m
(2.1)
–
–
(2.1)

Net realised 
(losses) 
$m
(1.4)
–
–
(1.4)

Net foreign 
exchange 
(losses) 
$m
–
(1.8)
–
(1.8)

Net foreign 
exchange 
gains 
$m
–
3.6
–
3.6

Financing 
(losses) 
$m
–
–
(1.0)
(1.0)

Financing 
(losses) 
$m
–
–
(2.5)
(2.5)

116 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

The estimated fair values of the Group’s derivative instruments are as follows:

As at 31 December
Forward foreign currency contracts
Interest rate swaps
Total

Other 
receivables 
$m 
0.6
–
0.6

2016

Other 
payables 
$m
(0.6)
–
(0.6)

Interest 
rate swaps 
$m
–
(3.7)
(3.7)

Other 
receivables 
$m 
1.6
–
1.6

2015

Other 
payables 
$m
(0.7)
–
(0.7)

Interest 
rate swaps 
$m
–
(4.8)
(4.8)

A. FUTURES
The Group’s investment guidelines permit the use of futures which provide the Group with participation in market movements, determined by 
the underlying instrument on which the futures contract is based, without holding the instrument itself or the individual securities. This approach 
allows the Group more efficient and less costly access to the exposure than would be available by the exclusive use of individual fixed maturity 
and money market securities. Exchange-traded futures contracts may also be used as substitutes for ownership of the physical securities.

All futures contracts are held on a non-leveraged basis. An initial margin is provided, which is a deposit of cash and/or securities in an amount 
equal to a prescribed percentage of the contract value. The fair value of futures contracts is estimated daily and the margin is adjusted accordingly 
with unrealised gains and/or losses settled daily in cash and/or securities. A realised gain or loss is recognised when the contract is closed.

Futures contracts expose the Group to market risk to the extent that adverse changes occur in the estimated fair values of the underlying 
securities. Exchange-traded futures are, however, subject to a number of safeguards to ensure that obligations are met. These include the use 
of clearing houses (thus reducing counterparty credit risk), the posting of margins and the daily settlement of unrealised gains and losses. The 
amount of credit risk is therefore considered low. The investment guidelines restrict the maximum notional futures position as a percentage of 
the investment portfolio’s estimated fair value.

As at 31 December, the Group had the following exposure to treasury futures:

As at 31 December
Treasury futures
Total

Notional 
long 
$m
76.4
76.4

2016

Notional 
short 
$m
104.1
104.1

Net notional 
long (short) 
$m
(27.7)
(27.7)

Notional 
long 
$m
56.1
56.1

2015

Notional 
short 
$m
152.5
152.5

Net notional 
long (short) 
$m
(96.4)
(96.4)

B. OPTIONS
The Group’s investment guidelines permit the use of exchange-traded options on U.S. treasury futures and Eurodollar futures, which are  
used to manage exposure to interest rate risk and also to hedge duration. Exchange-traded options are held on a similar basis to futures and 
are subject to similar safeguards. Options are contractual arrangements that give the purchaser the right, but not the obligation, to either buy 
or sell an instrument at a specific set price at a predetermined future date. The Group may enter into option contracts that are secured by 
holdings in the underlying securities or by other means which permit immediate satisfaction of the Group’s obligations. The notional  
amount of options is $nil as at 31 December 2016 and 2015.

The investment guidelines also restrict the maximum notional options exposure as a percentage of the investment portfolio’s estimated 
fair value.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

117

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

C. FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS
A forward foreign currency contract is a commitment to purchase or sell a foreign currency at a future date, at a defined rate. The Group  
may utilise forward foreign currency contracts to gain exposure to a certain currency or market rate or manage the impact of fluctuations  
in foreign currencies on the value of its foreign currency denominated investments, debt and/or insurance related currency exposures.

Forward contracts expose the Group to credit, market and liquidity risks. Credit risk arises from the potential inability of counterparties  
to perform under the terms of the contract. The Group is exposed to market risk to the extent that adverse changes occur in the exchange 
rate of the underlying foreign currency. Liquidity risk represents the possibility that the Group may not be able to rapidly adjust the size of  
its forward positions at a reasonable price in times of high volatility and financial stress. These risks are mitigated by requiring a minimum 
counterparty credit quality, restricting the maximum notional exposure as a percentage of the investment portfolio’s estimated fair value and 
restricting exposures to foreign currencies, individually and in aggregate, as a percentage of the investment portfolio’s estimated fair value.

The notional amount of a derivative contract is the underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are calculated. A long position is 
equivalent to buying the underlying currency whereas a short position is equivalent to having sold the underlying currency.

The Group has the following open forward foreign currency contracts:

As at 31 December
Canadian dollar
Swedish Krona
Euro
Australian Dollar
Japanese Yen
Malaysian Ringgit
British Pound
Total

Notional 
long 
$m
–
–
–
–
–
2.7
13.4
16.1

2016

2015

Notional 
short 
$m
29.8
2.7
0.6
–
–
–
0.9
34.0

Net notional 
long (short) 
$m
(29.8)
(2.7)
(0.6)
–
–
2.7
12.5
(17.9)

Notional 
long 
$m
–
–
28.9
7.1
5.9
3.0
10.4
55.3

Notional 
short 
$m
21.4
–
15.9
17.8
7.4
–
8.6
71.1

Net notional 
long (short) 
$m
(21.4)
–
13.0
(10.7)
(1.5)
3.0
1.8
(15.8)

D. SWAPS
The Group’s investment guidelines permit the use of interest rate swaps and credit default swaps which are traded primarily OTC.

Interest rate swaps are used to manage interest rate exposure, portfolio duration or capitalise on anticipated changes in interest rate  
volatility without investing directly in the underlying securities. Interest rate swap agreements entail the exchange of commitments to pay  
or receive interest, such as an exchange of floating rate payments for fixed rate payments, with respect to a notional amount of principal. 
These agreements involve elements of credit and market risk. Such risks include the possibility that there may not be a liquid market, that  
the counterparty may default on its obligation to perform, or that there may be unfavourable movements in interest rates. These risks are 
mitigated through defining a minimum counterparty credit quality and a maximum notional exposure to interest rate swaps as a percentage 
of the investment portfolio’s estimated fair value. The notional amount of interest rate swaps held in the investment portfolio is not material as 
at 31 December 2016 and 2015. Through the use of interest rate swaps, the Group has fixed the interest rate on Lancashire’s subordinated 
loan notes until December 2020. These swaps were entered into in two separate tranches to extend the maturity of the swaps, the first of which 
expired in 2016. As at 31 December 2016 the notional amount of interest rate swaps held for hedging purposes was $122.3 million 
(31 December 2015 – $246.4 million).

118 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

III. DEBT RISK
The Group has issued long-term debt as described in note 17. The LHL issued subordinated loan notes due in 2035 bear interest at a floating 
rate that is reset on a quarterly basis, plus a fixed margin of 3.70 per cent. The Group is subject to interest rate risk on the coupon payments of 
these subordinated loan notes. The Group has mitigated the interest rate risk on the LHL debt by entering into interest rate swap contracts 
as follows:

Subordinated loan notes $97.0 million
Subordinated loan notes €24.0 million

Maturity date
15 December 2035
15 June 2035

Interest hedged
100%
100%

The interest rate swaps expire on 15 December 2020, therefore until 2020 the Group has no cash flow interest rate risk on the LHL issued 
subordinated loan notes due in 2035.

The senior unsecured notes maturing 1 October 2022 bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.70 per cent and therefore the Group is not exposed to 
interest rate risk on this long-term debt.

On the acquisition of Cathedral, the Group assumed subordinated loan notes as described in note 17. The Group is subject to interest rate risk 
on the coupon payment of this long-term debt. An increase of 100 basis points on the EURIBOR and LIBOR three-month deposit rates would 
result in an increase in the interest expense on long-term debt for the Group of approximately $0.7 million on an annual basis.

IV. CURRENCY RISK
The Group underwrites from two locations, Bermuda and London, although risks are assumed on a worldwide basis. Risks assumed are 
predominantly denominated in U.S. dollars.

The Group is exposed to currency risk to the extent its assets are denominated in different currencies to its liabilities. The Group is also 
exposed to non-retranslation risk on non-monetary assets such as unearned premiums and deferred acquisition costs. Exchange gains and 
losses can impact income.

The Group hedges monetary non-U.S. dollar liabilities primarily with non-U.S. dollar assets, but may also use derivatives to mitigate foreign 
currency exposures. The Group’s main foreign currency exposure relates to its insurance obligations, cash holdings, investments, premiums 
receivable, dividends payable and the euro denominated subordinated loan notes discussed in note 17. See page 118 for a listing of the 
Group’s open forward foreign currency contracts.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

119

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

The Group’s assets and liabilities, categorised by currency at their translated carrying amount, are as follows:

Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Accrued interest receivable
Investments
Inwards premiums receivable from insureds  
and cedants
Reinsurance assets
Other receivables
Corporation tax receivable
Investment in associate
Property, plant and equipment
Deferred acquisition costs
Intangible assets
Total assets as at 31 December 2016

Liabilities
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
Unearned premiums
Insurance contracts – other payables
Amounts payable to reinsurers
Deferred acquisition costs ceded
Other payables
Deferred tax liability
Interest rate swap
Long-term debt
Total liabilities as at 31 December 2016

U.S. $ 
$m
201.0
6.6
1,593.9

235.4
177.3
41.1
–
49.7
0.6
60.8
153.8
2,520.2

U.S. $ 
$m
548.8
287.7
27.0
51.4
0.4
31.0
7.8
1.5
283.3
1,238.9

Sterling 
$m
15.9
–
14.8

8.4
5.3
1.9
1.1
–
4.7
6.5
–
58.6

Sterling 
$m
34.1
19.8
5.6
0.9
–
29.9
10.9
–
–
101.2

Euro 
$m
25.0
–
27.4

17.1
3.5
–
–
–
–
7.4
–
80.4

Euro 
$m
41.1
34.6
3.0
0.4
–
–
–
2.2
37.6
118.9

Japanese Yen 
$m
14.0
–
–

2.7
0.3
–
–
–
–
0.7
–
17.7

Japanese Yen 
$m
20.1
7.4
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
27.5

Other 
$m
52.9
–
12.3

6.4
0.7
0.6
–
–
–
6.1
–
79.0

Other 
$m
35.7
24.0
1.8
–
–
0.1
–
–
–
61.6

Total 
$m
308.8
6.6
1,648.4

270.0
187.1
43.6
1.1
49.7
5.3
81.5
153.8
2,755.9

Total 
$m
679.8
373.5
37.4
52.7
0.4
61.0
18.7
3.7
320.9
1,548.1

120 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Accrued interest receivable
Investments
Inwards premiums receivable from insureds  
and cedants
Reinsurance assets
Other receivables
Investment in associate
Property, plant and equipment
Deferred acquisition costs
Intangible assets
Total assets as at 31 December 2015

Liabilities
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
Unearned premiums
Insurance contracts – other payables
Amounts payable to reinsurers
Deferred acquisition costs ceded
Other payables
Corporation tax payable
Deferred tax liability
Interest rate swap
Long-term debt
Total liabilities as at 31 December 2015

U.S. $ 
$m
190.8
6.5
1,706.3

204.4
106.1
35.5
47.5
0.5
68.4
153.8
2,519.8

U.S. $ 
$m
529.3
318.5
27.0
24.0
0.3
31.7
0.8
16.7
2.3
284.4
1,235.0

Sterling 
$m
40.3
–
17.0

15.4
7.2
1.8
–
6.7
5.6
–
94.0

Sterling 
$m
43.5
19.2
3.8
1.8
–
35.2
1.0
8.9
–
–
113.4

Euro 
$m
17.8
–
32.0

23.5
2.7
–
–
–
7.1
–
83.1

Euro 
$m
47.4
34.6
3.0
0.6
–
0.1
–
–
2.5
37.9
126.1

Japanese Yen 
$m
18.5
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
0.4
–
18.9

Japanese Yen 
$m
20.9
3.7
0.3
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
24.9

Other 
$m
24.4
–
18.0

10.4
0.8
0.5
–
–
5.7
–
59.8

Other 
$m
29.9
23.2
2.1
0.2
–
–
–
–
–
–
55.4

Total 
$m
291.8
6.5
1,773.3

253.7
116.8
37.8
47.5
7.2
87.2
153.8
2,775.6

Total 
$m
671.0
399.2
36.2
26.6
0.3
67.0
1.8
25.6
4.8
322.3
1,554.8

The impact on net income of a proportional foreign exchange movement of 10.0 per cent up and 10.0 per cent down against the U.S. dollar 
at the year end spot rates would be an increase or decrease of $1.5 million (2015 – $2.6 million).

The Group uses forward foreign currency contracts for the purposes of managing currency exposures. See page 118 for details of the Group’s 
open forward foreign currency contracts.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

121

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

C. LIQUIDITY RISK
Liquidity risk is the risk that cash may not be available to pay obligations when they are due without incurring an unreasonable cost. The 
Group’s main exposures to liquidity risk are with respect to its insurance and investment activities. The Group is exposed if proceeds from 
financial assets are not sufficient to fund obligations arising from its insurance contracts. The Group can be exposed to daily calls on its 
available investment assets, principally to settle insurance claims and to fund trust accounts following a large catastrophe loss.

Exposures in relation to insurance activities are as follows:

•  large catastrophic events, or multiple medium-sized events in quick succession, resulting in a requirement to pay a large value of claims 

within a relatively short time frame;

•  failure of insureds or cedants to meet their contractual obligations with respect to the payment of premiums in a timely manner; and
•  failure of reinsurers to meet their contractual obligations with respect to the payment of claims in a timely manner.

Exposures in relation to investment activities are as follows:

•  adverse market movements and/or a duration mismatch to obligations, resulting in investments being disposed of at a significant realised 

loss; and

•  an inability to liquidate investments due to market conditions.

The maturity dates of the Group’s fixed maturity portfolio are as follows:

As at 31 December 2016
Less than one year
Between one and two years
Between two and three years
Between three and four years
Between four and five years
Over five years
Asset backed and mortgage backed securities
Total fixed maturity securities

As at 31 December 2015
Less than one year
Between one and two years
Between two and three years
Between three and four years
Between four and five years
Over five years
Asset backed and mortgage backed securities
Total fixed maturity securities

Core 
$m
75.7
108.7
71.7
26.3
13.8
23.8
31.2
351.2

Core 
$m
58.0
185.3
96.6
25.1
21.3
21.3
45.9
453.5

Core plus 
$m
128.1
164.0
116.1
62.8
35.8
16.2
111.2
634.2

Core plus 
$m
93.0
190.7
102.8
28.3
46.5
11.8
128.9
602.0

Surplus 
$m
47.8
20.4
32.4
42.9
75.6
183.3
110.0
512.4

Surplus 
$m
24.5
70.3
35.9
53.3
96.2
132.5
133.5
546.2

Total 
$m
251.6
293.1
220.2
132.0
125.2
223.3
252.4
1,497.8

Total 
$m
175.5
446.3
235.3
106.7
164.0
165.6
308.3
1,601.7

122 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

The maturity profile of the financial liabilities of the Group is as follows:

As at 31 December 2016
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
Insurance contracts – other payables
Amounts payable to reinsurers
Other payables
Interest rate swap
Long-term debt
Total

As at 31 December 2015
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
Insurance contracts – other payables
Amounts payable to reinsurers
Other payables
Interest rate swap
Long-term debt
Total

Balance sheet 
$m
679.8
37.4
52.7
61.0
3.7
320.9
1,155.5

Balance sheet 
$m
671.0
36.2
26.6
67.0
4.8
322.3
1,127.9

Years until liability becomes due – undiscounted values

Less than one 
$m
269.0
34.4
52.7
61.0
1.6
14.0
432.7

One to three 
$m
255.2
3.0
–
–
1.8
34.6
294.6

Three to five 
$m
90.6
–
–
–
0.3
36.8
127.7

Years until liability becomes due – undiscounted values

Less than one 
$m
269.5
33.1
26.6
67.0
2.0
14.0
412.2

One to three 
$m
246.4
3.1
–
–
2.3
33.8
285.6

Three to five 
$m
88.6
–
–
–
0.5
36.5
125.6

Over five 
$m
65.0
–
–
–
–
496.5
561.5

Over five 
$m
66.5
–
–
–
–
521.3
587.8

Total 
$m
679.8
37.4
52.7
61.0
3.7
581.9
1,416.5

Total 
$m
671.0
36.2
26.6
67.0
4.8
605.6
1,411.2

Actual maturities of the above may differ from contractual maturities because certain borrowers have the right to call or prepay certain 
obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. While the estimation of the ultimate liability for losses and loss adjustment expenses  
is complex and incorporates a significant amount of judgement, the timing of payment of losses and loss adjustment expenses is also uncertain 
and cannot be predicted as simply as for other financial liabilities. Actuarial and statistical techniques, past experience and management’s 
judgement have been used to determine a likely settlement pattern.

The Group manages its liquidity risks via its investment strategy to hold high quality, highly liquid securities, sufficient to meet its insurance 
liabilities and other near-term liquidity requirements. The creation of the core portfolio with its subset of guidelines aims to ensure funds are 
readily available to meet potential insurance liabilities in an extreme event plus other near-term liquidity requirements. In addition, the Group 
has established asset allocation and maturity parameters within the investment guidelines such that the majority of the investments are in high 
quality assets which could be converted into cash promptly and at minimal expense. The Group monitors market changes and outlook and 
reallocates assets as deemed necessary.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

123

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

D. CREDIT RISK
Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty may fail to pay, or repay, a debt or obligation. The Group is exposed to credit risk on its fixed maturity 
investment portfolio and derivative instruments, its inwards premiums receivable from insureds and cedants, and on any amounts recoverable 
from reinsurers.

Credit risk on the fixed maturity portfolio is mitigated through the Group’s policy to invest in instruments of high credit quality issuers and to 
limit the amounts of credit exposure with respect to particular ratings categories and any one issuer. Securities rated below an S&P or equivalent 
rating of BBB-/Baa3 may comprise no more than 10.0 per cent of shareholders’ equity. In addition, no one issuer, with the exception of U.S. 
government and agency securities, other G10 government guaranteed securities (excluding Italy) and Australian sovereign debt should  
exceed 5.0 per cent of shareholders’ equity. The Group is therefore not exposed to any significant credit concentration risk on its investment 
portfolio, except for fixed maturity securities issued by the U.S. government and government agencies and other highly rated governments.

Credit risk on exchange-traded derivative instruments is mitigated by the use of clearing houses to reduce counterparty credit risk,  
requiring the posting of margins and settling of unrealised gains and losses daily. Credit risk on OTC derivatives is mitigated by monitoring  
the creditworthiness of the counterparties and by requiring collateral amounts exceeding predetermined thresholds to be posted for positions 
which have accrued gains.

Credit risk on inwards premiums receivable from insureds and cedants is managed by conducting business with reputable broking 
organisations, with whom the Group has established relationships, and by rigorous cash collection procedures. The Group also has a broker 
approval process in place. Binding authorities are subject to standard market controls including credit control. Credit risk from reinsurance 
recoverables is primarily managed by the review and approval of reinsurer security, as discussed on page 109.

The table below presents an analysis of the Group’s major exposures to counterparty credit risk, based on their rating. The table includes 
amounts due from policyholders and unsettled investment trades. The quality of these receivables is not graded but, based on management’s 
historical experience, there is limited default risk associated with these amounts.

As at 31 December 2016
AAA
AA+, AA, AA-
A+, A, A-
BBB+, BBB, BBB-
Other1
Total

(1)  Reinsurance recoveries classified as ‘other’ include $5.6 million of reserves that are fully collateralised.

As at 31 December 2015
AAA
AA+, AA, AA-
A+, A, A-
BBB+, BBB, BBB-
Other1
Total

(1)  Reinsurance recoveries classified as ‘other’ include $1.5 million of reserves that are fully collateralised.

The counterparty to the Group’s long-term debt interest rate swaps is currently rated A by S&P.

Cash and fixed 
maturity securities 
$m
221.6
735.8
502.5
231.7
115.0
1,806.6

Inwards premiums 
receivable and 
other receivables 
$m
–
–
84.5
–
245.6
330.1

Cash and fixed 
maturity securities 
$m
302.8
744.0
502.2
232.0
112.5
1,893.5

Inwards premiums 
receivable and 
other receivables 
$m
–
–
81.3
–
212.9
294.2

Reinsurance 
recoveries  
$m
–
2.6
126.4
–
7.7
136.7

Reinsurance 
recoveries  
$m
–
–
77.5
–
6.4
83.9

124 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

The following table shows inwards premiums receivable that are past due but not impaired:

Less than 90 days past due
Between 91 and 180 days past due
Over 180 days past due
Total

2016 
$m
12.3
5.9
16.1
34.3

2015 
$m
16.1
5.6
6.4
28.1

Provisions of $1.0 million (2015 – $2.2 million) have been made for impaired or irrecoverable balances and $1.2 million (2015 – $1.0 million 
charge) was released to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in respect of bad debts. No provisions have been made against 
balances recoverable from reinsurers.

E. OPERATIONAL RISK
Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes or systems. The Group and its subsidiaries have 
identified and evaluated their key operational risks and these are incorporated in the risk registers and modeled directly within BLAST. The 
Group has also established, and monitors compliance with, internal operational risk tolerances. The RRC reviews operational risk on at least 
an annual basis and operational risk is covered in the CRO’s quarterly ORSA report to the LHL Board and entity boards and in the Cathedral 
Risk Committee reporting.

In order to manage operational risks, the Group has implemented a robust governance framework. Policies and procedures are documented 
and identify the key risks and controls within processes. The Group’s Internal Audit function provides independent feedback with regard  
to the accuracy and completeness of key risks and controls, and independently verifies the effective operation of these through substantive 
testing. All higher risk areas are subject to an annual audit while compliance with tax operating guidelines is audited quarterly. Frequency  
of audits for all other areas varies from quarterly at the most frequent to a minimum of once every four years, on a rotational basis.

F. STRATEGIC RISK
The Group has identified several strategic risks. These include:

•  the risks that either the poor execution of the business plan or an inappropriate business plan in itself results in a strategy that  

fails to adequately reflect the trading environment, resulting in an inability to optimise performance, including reputational risk;

•  the risks of the failure to maintain adequate capital, accessing capital at an inflated cost or the inability to access capital. This includes 
unanticipated changes in vendor, regulatory and/or rating agency models that could result in an increase in capital requirements or  
a change in the type of capital required; and

•  the risks of succession planning, staff retention and key man risks.

I. BUSINESS PLAN RISK
The Group addresses the risks associated with the planning and execution of the business plan through a combination of the following:

•  an iterative annual forward-looking business planning process with cross departmental involvement;
•  evaluation and approval of the annual business plan by the Board of Directors;
•  regular monitoring of actual versus planned results;
•  periodic review and re-forecasting as market conditions change; and
•  feedback to senior management via the daily UMCC and fortnightly RRC meetings.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

125

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

II. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT RISK
The total capital of the Group is as follows:

As at 31 December
Shareholders’ equity
Long-term debt
Total capital
Intangible assets
Total tangible capital

2016 
$m
1,207.3
320.9
1,528.2
(153.8)
1,374.4

2015 
$m
1,220.3
322.3
1,542.6
(153.8)
1,388.8

Risks associated with the effectiveness of the Group’s capital management, are mitigated as follows:

•  regular monitoring of current and prospective regulatory and rating agency capital requirements;
•  regular discussion with the Cathedral management team regarding Lloyd’s capital requirements;
•  oversight of capital requirements by the Board of Directors;
•  ability to purchase sufficient, cost effective reinsurance;
•  maintaining contact with vendors, regulators and rating agencies in order to stay abreast of upcoming developments; and
•  participation in industry groups such as the International Underwriters Association, the Association of Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers 

and the Lloyd’s Market Association.

The Group reviews the level and composition of capital on an ongoing basis with a view to:

•  maintaining sufficient capital for underwriting opportunities and to meet obligations to policyholders;
•  maximising the risk-adjusted return to shareholders within predetermined risk tolerances;
•  maintaining adequate financial strength ratings; and
•  meeting internal and regulatory capital requirements.

Capital is increased or returned as appropriate. The retention of earnings generated leads to an increase in capital. Capital raising can include 
debt or equity and returns of capital may be made through dividends, share repurchases, a redemption of debt or any combination thereof. 
Other capital management tools and products available to the Group may also be utilised. All capital actions require approval by the Board 
of Directors.

Internal methods have been developed to review the profitability of classes of business and their estimated capital requirements plus the capital 
requirements of the combination of a wide range of other risk categories. These approaches are used by management in decision making.

The Group’s aim is to provide its shareholders with an RoE of 13.0 per cent in excess of a risk-free rate over the longer term. The return  
is generated within a broad framework of risk parameters. The return is measured by management in terms of the IRR of the increase in 
FCBVS in the period adjusted for dividends accrued. This aim is a long-term goal, acknowledging that management expects both higher  
and lower results in the shorter term. The cyclicality and volatility of the insurance market is expected to be the largest driver of this pattern. 
Management monitors these peaks and troughs – adjusting the Group’s portfolio to make the most effective use of available capital and 
seeking to maximise the risk-adjusted return.

126 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

IRR achieved is as follows:

31 December 20051
31 December 2006
31 December 2007
31 December 2008
31 December 2009
31 December 2010
31 December 2011
31 December 2012
31 December 2013
31 December 2014
31 December 2015
31 December 2016

(1)  The returns shown are for the period from date of incorporation, 12 October 2005 to 31 December 2005.

IRR achieved in excess of the three-month treasury yield is as follows:

31 December 20051
31 December 2006
31 December 2007
31 December 2008
31 December 2009
31 December 2010
31 December 2011
31 December 2012
31 December 2013
31 December 2014
31 December 2015
31 December 2016

(1)  The returns shown are for the period from date of incorporation, 12 October 2005 to 31 December 2005.

Annual 
return 
%
(3.2)
17.8
31.4
7.8
26.5
23.3
13.4
16.7
18.9
13.9
10.9
13.5

Annual 
return 
%
(3.4)
13.0
26.9
6.4
26.4
23.2
13.3
16.6
18.9
13.9
10.9
13.2

Compound 
annual return 
%
n/a
14.0
22.4
17.9
19.8
20.3
19.5
19.2
19.2
18.9
18.6
18.4

Compound 
annual return 
%
n/a
9.2
17.8
14.3
17.1
18.2
17.7
17.7
17.9
17.7
17.5
17.4

Inception to 
date return 
%
(3.2)
14.0
50.3
63.7
105.8
152.4
191.2
242.7
308.0
375.3
449.1
541.1

Inception to 
date return 
%
(3.4)
9.2
40.8
52.7
94.6
141.1
179.9
231.3
296.6
363.8
437.5
529.2

www.lancashiregroup.com 

127

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK DISCLOSURES CONTINUED

The primary source of capital used by the Group is equity shareholders’ funds and borrowings. As a holding company, LHL relies on dividends 
from its operating entities to provide the cash flow required for debt service and dividends to shareholders. The operating entities’ ability to 
pay dividends and make capital distributions is subject to the legal and regulatory restrictions of the jurisdictions in which they operate.

On 1 January 2016 Solvency II, a regulatory regime for (re)insurers domiciled in the EEA, came into effect, with the PRA as the Group’s 
supervisor. Solvency II introduces a new basis for assessing capital and solvency, comprising a market-consistent economic balance sheet and an 
SCR, using either an internal model or the standard formula. Both the Group and LUK calculate their SCR using the standard formula. As the 
Group’s long-term debt is excluded from Solvency II capital (‘own funds’) both the Group’s and LUK’s Solvency II own funds are comprised 
entirely of Tier 1 items for the year ended 31 December 2016. Tier 1 capital is the highest quality capital under Solvency II with the greatest 
loss absorbing capacity, comprising share capital and retained earnings. For the year ended 31 December 2016 the Group and LUK were  
more than adequately capitalised under the Solvency II regime.

LICL is regulated by the BMA and is required to monitor its solvency capital requirement under the BMA’s regulatory framework, which is 
considered equivalent to the Solvency II regime. LICL’s capital requirement is calculated using the BSCR. For the year ended 
31 December 2016 LICL was more than adequately capitalised under the BMA regulatory regime.

The Group’s underwriting capacity in its Lloyd’s syndicates must be supported by providing a deposit in the form of cash, securities or LOCs, 
which are referred to as FAL. The capital framework at Lloyd’s requires each managing agent to calculate the capital requirement for each 
syndicate they manage. Solvency II internal models are used to determine capital requirements for Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010 based 
on the uSCR. Lloyd’s has the discretion to take into account other factors at syndicate or member level to uplift the calculated uSCR. This  
may include perceived deficiencies in the internal model result as well as the need to maintain Lloyd’s overall security rating. Currently,  
as a minimum, Lloyd’s applies a 35.0 per cent uplift to each syndicate’s uSCR to arrive at the ECA.

Lloyd’s then uses each syndicate’s ECA as a basis for determining member level capital requirements, which is backed by FAL. For the 2017 
calendar year the Group’s corporate member’s FAL requirement was set at 75.6 per cent (2016 – 56.8 per cent) of underwriting capacity 
supported. Further adjustments can be made by Lloyd’s to allow for open year profits and losses of the syndicates on which the corporate 
member participates. The increase was primarily driven by a change in model version and the depreciation of Sterling during the second  
half of 2016. The Group has met its FAL requirement of £209.4 million as at 31 December 2016 (31 December 2015 – £157.3 million).

For the years ended 31 December 2016 and 2015 the capital requirements of all the Group’s regulatory jurisdictions were met.

III. RETENTION RISK
Risks associated with succession planning, staff retention and key man risks are mitigated through a combination of resource planning 
processes and controls, including:

•  the identification of key personnel with appropriate succession plans;
•  the identification of key team profit generators and function holders with targeted retention packages;
•  documented recruitment procedures, position descriptions and employment contracts;
•  resource monitoring and the provision of appropriate compensation, including equity based compensation which vests over a defined time 

horizon; and
•  training schemes.

128 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

1. GENERAL INFORMATION
The Group is a provider of global specialty insurance and reinsurance products with operations in London and Bermuda. LHL was 
incorporated under the laws of Bermuda on 12 October 2005. On 16 March 2009, LHL was added to the official list and its common shares 
were admitted to trading on the main market of the LSE; previously LHL’s shares were listed on AIM, a subsidiary market of the LSE. Since 
21 May 2007, LHL’s shares have had a secondary listing on the BSX. LHL’s registered office is Power House, 7 Par-la-Ville Road, Hamilton  
HM 11, Bermuda. LHL’s head office is Level 29, 20 Fenchurch Street, London, EC3M 3BY, United Kingdom.

The consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2016 include the Company’s subsidiary companies, the Company’s 
interest in associate, and the Group’s share of the Syndicates’ assets and liabilities and income and expenses. A full listing of the Group’s 
related parties can be found in note 22.

2. SEGMENTAL REPORTING
Management and the Board of Directors review the Group’s business primarily by its five principal segments: Property, Energy, Marine, 
Aviation and Lloyd’s. These segments are therefore deemed to be the Group’s operating segments for the purposes of segmental reporting. 
Further sub-classes of business are underwritten within each operating segment. The nature of these individual sub-classes is discussed further 
in the risk disclosures section on pages 105 to 108. Operating segment performance is measured by the net underwriting profit or loss and the 
combined ratio.

All amounts reported are transactions with external parties and associates. There are no inter-segmental transactions and there are no 
significant insurance or reinsurance contracts that insure or reinsure risks in Bermuda, the Group’s country of domicile.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

129

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

2. SEGMENTAL REPORTING CONTINUED
REVENUE AND EXPENSE BY OPERATING SEGMENT

For the year ended 31 December 2016
Gross premiums written by geographic area
U.S. and Canada
Worldwide offshore
Worldwide, including the U.S. and Canada1
Europe
Far East
Worldwide, excluding the U.S. and Canada2
Middle East
Rest of world
Total
Outwards reinsurance premiums
Change in unearned premiums
Change in unearned premiums on premiums ceded
Net premiums earned
Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses
Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses 
recoverable
Insurance acquisition expenses
Insurance acquisition expenses ceded
Net underwriting profit
Net unallocated income and expenses
Profit before tax
Net loss ratio
Net acquisition cost ratio
Expense ratio
Combined ratio

Property 
$m

84.0
0.9
23.5
27.7
20.0
9.4
11.5
42.5
219.5
(62.2)
(15.0)
6.2
148.5
(14.6)

0.9
(29.4)
1.4
106.8

9.2%
18.9%
–
28.1%

Energy 
$m

0.4
123.4
2.0
–
–
0.1
–
0.1
126.0
(40.2)
20.9
(1.2)
105.5
(91.3)

49.8
(48.2)
0.6
16.4

Marine 
$m

–
36.6
–
–
–
–
–
0.6
37.2
(8.3)
6.6
(0.1)
35.4
(15.1)

0.3
(10.2)
0.5
10.9

Aviation 
$m

–
0.2
36.0
–
–
–
–
–
36.2
(9.5)
0.6
(1.8)
25.5
1.1

0.1
(8.1)
0.3
18.9

Lloyd’s 
$m

95.3
–
54.1
19.2
9.2
5.9
2.0
29.3
215.0
(55.0)
12.6
0.6
173.2
(92.3)

18.6
(39.2)
0.2
60.5

39.3%
45.1%
–
84.4%

41.8%
27.4%
–
69.2%

(4.7%)
30.6%
–
25.9%

42.6%
22.5%
–
65.1%

Total 
$m

179.7
161.1
115.6
46.9
29.2
15.4
13.5
72.5
633.9
(175.2)
25.7
3.7
488.1
(212.2)

69.7
(135.1)
3.0
213.5
(63.1)
150.4
29.2%
27.1%
20.2%
76.5%

(1)  Worldwide, including the U.S. and Canada, comprises insurance and reinsurance contracts that insure or reinsure risks in more than one geographic area.
(2)  Worldwide, excluding the U.S. and Canada, comprises insurance and reinsurance contracts that insure or reinsure risks in more than one geographic area, but that specifically exclude the U.S. and Canada.

130 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

REVENUE AND EXPENSE BY OPERATING SEGMENT

For the year ended 31 December 2015
Gross premiums written by geographic area
U.S. and Canada
Worldwide offshore
Worldwide, including the U.S. and Canada1
Europe
Far East
Worldwide, excluding the U.S. and Canada2
Middle East
Rest of world
Total
Outwards reinsurance premiums
Change in unearned premiums
Change in unearned premiums on premiums ceded
Net premiums earned
Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses
Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses 
recoverable
Insurance acquisition expenses
Insurance acquisition expenses ceded
Net underwriting profit
Net unallocated income and expenses
Profit before tax
Net loss ratio
Net acquisition cost ratio
Expense ratio
Combined ratio

Property 
$m

74.3
0.2
23.0
24.2
23.2
10.4
7.3
34.6
197.2
(51.4)
19.6
5.9
171.3
(33.0)

14.8
(32.4)
0.8
121.5

10.6%
18.4%
–
29.0%

Energy 
$m

1.2
106.2
3.9
(0.1)
(0.1)
–
–
0.9
112.0
(30.6)
48.6
(3.5)
126.5
(47.5)

0.7
(48.0)
0.7
32.4

Marine 
$m

Aviation 
$m

–
46.8
–
–
–
–
–
0.8
47.6
(11.9)
1.9
0.1
37.7
(5.2)

–
(13.2)
0.3
19.6

–
–
36.6
–
–
–
–
–
36.6
(14.2)
6.4
4.6
33.4
(26.8)

7.5
(8.9)
0.1
5.3

Lloyd’s 
$m

100.6
–
72.1
24.8
8.1
7.8
0.7
33.6
247.7
(51.3)
3.4
(1.6)
198.2
(65.0)

(1.2)
(45.7)
0.1
86.4

37.0%
37.4%
–
74.4%

13.8%
34.2%
–
48.0%

57.8%
26.3%
–
84.1%

33.4%
23.0%
–
56.4%

Total 
$m

176.1
153.2
135.6
48.9
31.2
18.2
8.0
69.9
641.1
(159.4)
79.9
5.5
567.1
(177.5)

21.8
(148.2)
2.0
265.2
(93.5)
171.7
27.5%
25.8%
18.8%
72.1%

(1)  Worldwide, including the U.S. and Canada, comprises insurance and reinsurance contracts that insure or reinsure risks in more than one geographic area.
(2)  Worldwide, excluding the U.S. and Canada, comprises insurance and reinsurance contracts that insure or reinsure risks in more than one geographic area, but that specifically exclude the U.S. and Canada.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

131

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

3. INVESTMENT RETURN
The total investment return for the Group is as follows:

For the year ended 31 December 2016
Fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Equity securities – AFS
Hedge funds – at FVTPL
Other investments
Cash and cash equivalents
Total investment return

Net investment 
income and net 
other investment
income (losses)1
$m
28.4
1.2
0.3
4.3
1.4
1.1
36.7

Net realised 
(losses) gains 
and impairments  
$m
1.8
–
(1.3)
(0.8)
(2.1)
–
(2.4)

Net change 
in unrealised 
gains/losses  
on AFS  
$m
3.7
–
0.4
–
–
–
4.1

Total investment 
return excluding  
foreign exchange  
$m
33.9
1.2
(0.6)
3.5
(0.7)
1.1
38.4

Net foreign 
exchange 
losses  
$m
(0.5)
–
–
–
(0.2)
(0.9)
(1.6)

Total investment 
return including  
foreign exchange  
$m
33.4
1.2
(0.6)
3.5
(0.9)
0.2
36.8

(1)  Net unrealised gains/(losses) on our FVTPL investments are included within net investment income and net other investment income.

For the year ended 31 December 2015
Fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Equity securities – AFS
Hedge funds – at FVTPL
Other investments
Cash and cash equivalents
Total investment return

Net investment 
income and net 
other investment
income (losses)1
$m
28.8
(1.3)
0.4
–
–
0.6
28.5

Net realised 
(losses) gains 
and impairments  
$m
(1.8)
2.7
(0.7)
(1.6)
(1.4)
–
(2.8)

Net change 
in unrealised 
gains/losses  
on AFS  
$m
(11.4)
–
(0.2)
–
–
–
(11.6)

Total investment 
return excluding  
foreign exchange  
$m
15.6
1.4
(0.5)
(1.6)
(1.4)
0.6
14.1

Net foreign 
exchange 
 (losses) gains 
$m
(9.2)
–
–
–
2.1
(0.3)
(7.4)

Total investment 
return including  
foreign exchange  
$m
6.4
1.4
(0.5)
(1.6)
0.7
0.3
6.7

(1)  Net unrealised gains/(losses) on our FVTPL investments are included within net investment income and net other investment income.

Net realised (losses) gains and impairments include impairment losses of $3.5 million (2015 – $2.4 million) recognised on fixed maturity 
securities and $0.4 million (2015 – $0.5 million) recognised on equity securities held by the Group.

Refer to pages 116 and 117 in the risk disclosures section for the estimated fair values of the Group’s derivative instruments. Realised gains and 
losses on futures and options contracts are included in net realised (losses) gains and impairments.

Included in investment income is $4.5 million (2015 – $3.2 million) of investment management, accounting and custodian fees.

4. NET INSURANCE ACQUISITION EXPENSES

Insurance acquisition expenses
Changes in deferred insurance acquisition expenses
Insurance acquisition expenses ceded
Changes in deferred insurance acquisition expenses ceded
Total net insurance acquisition expenses

2016 
$m
129.4
5.7
(3.1)
0.1
132.1

2015 
$m
130.8
17.4
(2.2)
0.2
146.2

132 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

5. RESULTS OF OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Results of operating activities are stated after charging the following amounts:

Depreciation on owned assets
Operating lease charges
Auditors’ remuneration
 – Group audit fees
 – Other services
Total

2016 
$m
2.3
2.3

1.8
0.1
6.5

During 2016 and 2015, EY provided non-audit services in relation to taxation services. All fees paid to the Group’s auditors for non-audit 
services are approved by the Group’s Audit Committee.

6. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Wages and salaries
Pension costs
Bonus and other benefits
Total cash compensation
RSS – performance1
RSS – ordinary
RSS – bonus deferral
RSS – Cathedral acquisition grant
Total equity based compensation
Total employee benefits

2016 
$m
27.1
3.1
31.2
61.4
8.3
1.2
2.0
(0.8)
10.7
72.1

2015 
$m
1.9
3.4

1.8
0.1
7.2

2015 
$m
30.4
3.1
30.8
64.3
7.3
–
2.1
6.4
15.8
80.1

(1)  Previously the performance RSS options were referred to as ordinary RSS options. The terminology has been updated as RSS options without performance criteria for vesting were issued for the first time in 2016 and are 

referred to as ordinary RSS options.

EQUITY BASED COMPENSATION
The Group’s equity based compensation scheme is its RSS. Previously the Group also authorised and issued warrants at its formation in 2005 
and 2006. These were all exercised during 2015 and expired on 16 December 2015.

On 22 December 2010, LHL’s shareholders, in a Special General Meeting, voted in favour of the LHL Board’s proposal to modify the existing 
RSS awards programme to a nil-cost options programme. The modification introduced an exercise period of ten years from the grant date for 
all outstanding and future RSS grants.

The fair value of any TSR component of the nil-cost options is estimated using a stochastic model. For all other components the Black-Scholes 
model is used to estimate the fair value.

The following table lists the assumptions used in the stochastic model for the RSS awards granted during the years ended 31 December 2016 
and 2015:

Assumptions
Dividend yield
Expected volatility1
Risk-free interest rate2
Expected average life of options
Share price

2016
–
22.2%
0.5%
3 years
$8.85

2015
–
19.5%
0.7%
3 years
$9.87

(1)  The expected volatility of LHL and comparator companies’ share prices are calculated based on the movement in the share prices over a period prior to the grant date, equal in length to the expected life of the award.
(2)  The risk-free interest rate is consistent with three-year UK government bond yields on the date of grant.

The calculation of the equity based compensation expense assumes forfeitures due to employee turnover of 10.0 per cent per annum prior to 
vesting, with subsequent adjustments to reflect actual experience.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

133

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

6. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CONTINUED
RSS – PERFORMANCE
The performance RSS options vest after a three-year period and are dependent on certain performance criteria. A maximum of 75.0 per cent 
of the performance RSS options will vest only on the achievement of an RoE in excess of a required amount. A maximum of 25.0 per cent of 
the performance RSS options will vest only on the achievement of a TSR in excess of the 75th percentile of the TSR of a predefined comparator 
group. For all RSS options issued in 2012 and earlier the performance criteria was split as 50.0 per cent relating to RoE and 50.0 per cent 
relating to TSR. An amount equivalent to the dividends paid between the grant date and the exercise date accrues and is paid at the time  
of exercise, pro-rata according to the number of RSS options that vest.

Outstanding as at 31 December 2014
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Lapsed
Outstanding as at 31 December 2015
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Lapsed
Outstanding as at 31 December 2016

Exercisable as at 31 December 2015
Exercisable as at 31 December 2016

Number of 
employee 
restricted stock
3,154,216
1,529,507
(662,345)
(223,893)
(525,348)
3,272,137
886,916
(499,296)
(72,024)
(224,576)
3,363,157

956,911
226,863

Number of 
non-employee 
restricted stock
221,833
–
(128,839)
–
(92,994)
–
–
–
–
–
–

Total number of 
restricted stock
3,376,049
1,529,507
(791,184)
(223,893)
(618,342)
3,272,137
886,916
(499,296)
(72,024)
(224,576)
3,363,157

–
–

956,911
226,863

Weighted average remaining contractual life
Weighted average fair value at date of grant  
during the year
Weighted average share price at date of  
exercise during the year

2016

2015

Employee 
restricted stock
8.0 years

Non-employee 
restricted stock
–

Total 
restricted stock
8.0 years

Employee 
restricted stock
7.9 years

Non-employee 
restricted stock
–

Total 
restricted stock
7.9 years

$7.60

$8.27

–

–

$7.60

$8.27

$8.72

$9.98

–

$9.86

$8.72

$9.97

RSS – ORDINARY
The ordinary RSS options were issued for the first time in 2016 and vest three years from the date of grant and do not have associated 
performance criteria for vesting. An amount equivalent to the dividends paid between the grant date and the exercise date accrues and is paid 
at the time of exercise. These awards will become exercisable in the first open period following the release of the Company’s 2018 year-end 
results after the Board meeting in February 2019.

Granted
Forfeited
Outstanding as at 31 December 2016

Weighted average remaining contractual life
Weighted average fair value at date of grant during the year

134 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Total number of 
restricted stock
688,714
(91,194)
597,520

2016 Total 
restricted stock
9.1 years
$8.85

 
RSS – BONUS DEFERRAL
The bonus deferral RSS options vesting periods range from one to three years from the date of grant and do not have associated performance 
criteria for vesting. An amount equivalent to the dividends paid between the grant date and the exercise date accrues and is paid at the time 
of exercise.

Outstanding as at 31 December 2014
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Outstanding as at 31 December 2015
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Outstanding as at 31 December 2016

Exercisable as at 31 December 2015
Exercisable as at 31 December 2016

Number of 
employee 
restricted stock
363,610
268,738
(170,844)
(26,229)
435,275
270,752
(180,737)
(1,727)
523,563

Number of 
non-employee 
restricted stock
13,738
–
(11,183)
–
2,555
–
–
–
2,555

Total number of 
restricted stock
377,348
268,738
(182,027)
(26,229)
437,830
270,752
(180,737)
(1,727)
526,118

60,882
80,576

–
2,555

60,882
83,131

Weighted average remaining contractual life
Weighted average fair value at date of grant during  
the year
Weighted average share price at date of exercise  
during the year

2016

2015

Employee 
restricted stock
8.5 years

Non-employee 
restricted stock
0.1 years

Total 
restricted stock
8.5 years

Employee 
restricted stock
8.0 years

Non-employee 
restricted stock
1.1 years

Total 
restricted stock
8.0 years

$7.72

$8.24

–

–

$7.72

$9.69

–

$9.69

$8.24

$10.08

$9.96

$10.08

RSS – CATHEDRAL ACQUISITION
The Cathedral acquisition RSS options vesting periods range from three to five years and are dependent on certain performance criteria. A 
maximum of 75.0 per cent of the Cathedral acquisition RSS options will vest only on the achievement of a Cathedral combined ratio below a 
required amount. A maximum of 25.0 per cent of the Cathedral acquisition RSS options will vest only on the achievement of an LHL RoE in 
excess of a required amount. An amount equivalent to the dividends paid between the grant date and the exercise date accrues and is paid at 
the time of exercise. The first tranche of awards are exercisable in 2017.

Outstanding as at 31 December 2015
Forfeited
Outstanding as at 31 December 2016

Weighted average remaining contractual life
Weighted average fair value at date of grant

Total number of 
restricted stock
2,307,157
(950,907)
1,356,250

Total restricted 
stock
6.9 years
$13.01

MANAGEMENT WARRANTS
During the year ended 31 December 2015 all of the remaining management team ordinary and performance warrants were exercised 
as follows:

Management team performance warrants
Management team ordinary warrants

Number exercised
559,182
117,480

Weighted average 
exercise price
$4.72
$3.62

Fair value of 
warrants granted
$2.62
$2.62

www.lancashiregroup.com 

135

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

7. FINANCING COSTS

Interest expense on long-term debt
Net losses on interest rate swaps
Other financing costs
Total

2016 
$m
15.6
1.0
1.6
18.2

2015 
$m
15.1
2.5
0.8
18.4

Refer to note 17 for details of long-term debt and financing arrangements.

8. TAX
BERMUDA
LHL, LICL and LUK have received an undertaking from the Bermuda government exempting them from all Bermuda local income, 
withholding and capital gains taxes until 31 March 2035. At the present time no such taxes are levied in Bermuda.

UNITED KINGDOM
LHL and its UK subsidiaries are subject to normal UK corporation tax on all their taxable profits.

Corporation tax charge for the period
Adjustments in respect of prior period corporation tax
Deferred tax credit for the period
Tax rate change adjustment
Adjustments in respect of prior period deferred tax
Total tax credit

Tax reconciliation1
Profit before tax
UK corporation tax at 20.0% (2015 – 20.3%)
Non-taxable income
Adjustments in respect of prior period
Differences related to equity based compensation
Other expense permanent differences
Tax rate change adjustment
Unused tax losses not recognised for deferred tax
Utilisation of tax losses previously unrecognised for deferred tax
Total tax credit

(1)  All tax reconciling balances have been classified as recurring items.

2016 
$m
2.7
(2.4)
(4.0)
(0.8)
0.6
(3.9)

2016 
$m
150.4
30.1
(34.4)
(1.8)
0.6
3.1
(0.8)
0.6
(1.3)
(3.9)

2015 
$m
2.3
(0.4)
(7.9)
(0.8)
(3.2)
(10.0)

2015 
$m
171.7
34.8
(41.1)
(3.6)
0.4
1.7
(0.8)
–
(1.4)
(10.0)

Due to the different taxpaying jurisdictions throughout the Group, the current tax credit as a percentage of the Group’s profit before tax is  
2.6 per cent (2015 – 5.8 per cent). Non-taxable income relates to profits of companies within the Group that are non-tax resident in the UK, 
intra-group dividends and the share of profit of associate.

For the years ended 31 December, the following tax movements were recognised in other reserves relating to tax deductions for equity based 
compensation award exercises and temporary differences in respect of unexercised awards where the estimated market value varies from the 
cumulative expense at the reporting date.

Deferred tax credit
Total tax credit in other reserves

2016 
$m
–
–

2015 
$m
(0.1)
(0.1)

Refer to note 10 for details of the tax expense related to the net change in unrealised gains/losses on investments that is included in 
accumulated other comprehensive loss within shareholders’ equity.

136 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

9. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash at bank and in hand
Cash equivalents
Total cash and cash equivalents

2016 
$m
122.4
186.4
308.8

2015 
$m
131.7
160.1
291.8

Cash equivalents have an original maturity of three months or less. The carrying amount of these assets approximates their fair value. Refer to 
note 17 for the cash and cash equivalent balances on deposit as collateral.

10. INVESTMENTS

As at 31 December 2016
Fixed maturity securities – AFS
 – Short-term investments
 – Fixed maturity funds
 – U.S. treasuries
 – Other government bonds
 – U.S. municipal bonds
 – U.S. government agency debt
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency commercial mortgage backed securities
 – Bank loans
 – Corporate bonds
Total fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Equity securities – AFS
Hedge funds – at FVTPL
Total investments

Cost or 
amortised cost  
$m

Unrealised 
gains 
$m

Unrealised 
losses 
$m

Estimated 
fair value 
$m

5.3
14.5
307.8
67.6
1.0
83.2
111.1
119.8
14.6
9.7
120.8
600.2
1,455.6
50.5
20.8
122.5
1,649.4

–
–
0.1
0.1
0.1
–
0.3
0.7
0.1
–
1.4
1.7
4.5
1.1
0.8
7.4
13.8

–
–
(2.4)
(1.1)
–
(1.3)
(1.2)
(2.2)
(0.4)
(0.1)
(0.6)
(4.6)
(13.9)
–
(0.4)
(0.5)
(14.8)

5.3
14.5
305.5
66.6
1.1
81.9
110.2
118.3
14.3
9.6
121.6
597.3
1,446.2
51.6
21.2
129.4
1,648.4

www.lancashiregroup.com 

137

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

10. INVESTMENTS CONTINUED

As at 31 December 2015
Fixed maturity securities – AFS
 – Short-term investments
 – Fixed maturity funds
 – U.S. treasuries
 – Other government bonds
 – U.S. municipal bonds
 – U.S. government agency debt
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency commercial mortgage backed securities
 – Bank loans
 – Corporate bonds
Total fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Equity securities – AFS
Hedge funds – at FVTPL
Total investments

Cost or 
amortised cost  
$m

Unrealised 
gains 
$m

Unrealised 
losses 
$m

Estimated 
fair value 
$m

20.6
13.9
394.9
70.0
5.0
3.9
115.2
144.0
22.1
28.8
119.9
659.4
1,597.7
24.9
15.8
153.6
1,792.0

–
–
0.2
0.3
0.2
–
0.1
1.7
0.3
0.1
0.2
1.4
4.5
–
1.6
5.3
11.4

–
(2.5)
(1.8)
(4.9)
–
–
(1.4)
(1.9)
(0.6)
(0.1)
(5.1)
(7.0)
(25.3)
(0.1)
(1.8)
(2.9)
(30.1)

20.6
11.4
393.3
65.4
5.2
3.9
113.9
143.8
21.8
28.8
115.0
653.8
1,576.9
24.8
15.6
156.0
1,773.3

2015 
$m
6.1
(27.1)
10.4
0.1
(10.5)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss is in relation to the Group’s AFS fixed maturity and equity securities and is as follows:

Unrealised gains
Unrealised losses
Net unrealised foreign exchange losses on fixed maturity securities – AFS
Tax provision
Accumulated other comprehensive loss

2016 
$m
5.3
(14.3)
2.5
0.1
(6.4)

Fixed maturity securities are presented in the risk disclosures section on page 122. Refer to note 17 for the investment balances in trusts in 
favour of ceding companies and on deposit as collateral.

The Group determines the estimated fair value of each individual security utilising the highest level inputs available. Prices for the Group’s 
investment portfolio are provided by a third-party investment accounting firm whose pricing processes and the controls thereon are subject  
to an annual audit on both the operation and the effectiveness of those controls. The audit reports are available to clients of the firm and the 
report is reviewed annually by management. In accordance with their pricing policy, various recognised reputable pricing sources are used 
including broker-dealers and pricing vendors. The pricing sources use bid prices where available, otherwise indicative prices are quoted  
based on observable market trade data. The prices provided are compared to the investment managers’ pricing. The Group has not made any 
adjustments to any pricing provided by independent pricing services or its third-party investment managers for either year ending 31 December.

The fair value of securities in the Group’s investment portfolio is estimated using the following techniques:

LEVEL (I)
Level (i) investments are securities with quoted prices in active markets. A financial instrument is regarded as quoted in an active market if 
quoted prices are readily and regularly available from an exchange, dealer, broker, industry group, pricing service or regulatory agency and 
those prices represent actual and regularly occurring market transactions on an arm’s length basis. The Group determines securities classified 
as Level (i) to include highly liquid U.S. treasuries, certain highly liquid short-term investments and quoted equity securities.

138 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

LEVEL (II)
Level (ii) investments are securities with quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities or securities valued using other valuation 
techniques for which all significant inputs are based on observable market data. Instruments included in Level (ii) are valued via independent 
external sources using modeled or other valuation methods. Such methods are typically industry accepted standard and include:

•  broker-dealer quotes;
•  pricing models or matrix pricing;
•  present values;
•  future cash flows;
•  yield curves;
•  interest rates;
•  prepayment speeds; and
•  default rates.

Other similar quoted instruments or market transactions may be used.

The Group determines securities classified as Level (ii) to include short-term and fixed maturity investments and certain derivatives such as:

•  Fixed maturity funds;
•  Non-U.S. government bonds;
•  U.S. municipal bonds;
•  U.S. government agency debt;
•  Asset backed securities;
•  U.S. government agency mortgage backed securities;
•  Non-agency mortgage backed securities;
•  Non-agency commercial mortgage backed securities;
•  Bank loans;
•  Corporate bonds; and
•  OTC derivatives, such as options, forward foreign exchange contracts, interest rate swaps and credit default swaps.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

139

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

10. INVESTMENTS CONTINUED
LEVEL (III)
Level (iii) investments are securities for which valuation techniques are not based on observable market data. The Group classifies hedge 
funds as Level (iii) assets as the valuation technique incorporates both observable and unobservable inputs.

The estimated fair values of the Group’s hedge funds are determined using a combination of the most recent NAVs provided by each fund’s 
independent administrator and the estimated performance provided by each hedge fund manager. Independent administrators provide 
monthly reported NAVs with up to a one-month delay in valuation. The most recent NAV available for each hedge fund is adjusted for the 
estimated performance, as provided by the fund manager, between the NAV date and the reporting date. Historically estimated fair values 
incorporating these performance estimates have not been significantly different from subsequent NAVs. Given the Group’s knowledge of  
the underlying investments and the size of the Group’s investment therein, we would not anticipate any material variance between estimated 
valuations and the final NAVs reported by the administrators.

The Group determines whether transfers have occurred between levels of the fair value hierarchy by re-assessing the categorisation at the end 
of each reporting period based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole.

The fair value hierarchy of the Group’s investment holdings is as follows:

As at 31 December 2016
Fixed maturity securities – AFS
 – Short-term investments
 – Fixed maturity funds
 – U.S. treasuries
 – Other government bonds
 – U.S. municipal bonds
 – U.S. government agency debt
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency commercial mortgage backed securities
 – Bank loans
 – Corporate bonds
Total fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Equity securities – AFS
Hedge funds – at FVTPL
Total investments

Level (i) 
$m

Level (ii) 
$m

Level (iii) 
$m

Total 
$m

4.0
–
305.5
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
309.5
–
21.2
–
330.7

1.3
14.5
–
66.6
1.1
81.9
110.2
118.3
14.3
9.6
121.6
597.3
1,136.7
51.6
–
–
1,188.3

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
129.4
129.4

5.3
14.5
305.5
66.6
1.1
81.9
110.2
118.3
14.3
9.6
121.6
597.3
1,446.2
51.6
21.2
129.4
1,648.4

140 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

As at 31 December 2015
Fixed maturity securities – AFS
 – Short-term investments
 – Fixed maturity funds
 – U.S. treasuries
 – Other government bonds
 – U.S. municipal bonds
 – U.S. government agency debt
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency commercial mortgage backed securities
 – Bank loans
 – Corporate bonds
Total fixed maturity securities – AFS
Fixed maturity securities – at FVTPL
Equity securities – AFS
Hedge funds – at FVTPL
Total investments

Level (i) 
$m

Level (ii) 
$m

Level (iii) 
$m

Total 
$m

10.9
–
393.3
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
404.2
–
15.6
–
419.8

9.7
11.4
–
65.4
5.2
3.9
113.9
143.8
21.8
28.8
115.0
653.8
1,172.7
24.8
–
–
1,197.5

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
156.0
156.0

20.6
11.4
393.3
65.4
5.2
3.9
113.9
143.8
21.8
28.8
115.0
653.8
1,576.9
24.8
15.6
156.0
1,773.3

Hedge funds 
$m
152.1
18.1
(12.9)
(1.3)
156.0
(30.3)
3.7
129.4

There have been no transfers between Levels (i) and (ii), therefore no reconciliations have been presented.

The table below analyses the movements in hedge funds classified as Level (iii) investments:

As at 31 December 2014
Purchases
Sales
Total net realised and unrealised losses recognised in profit or loss
As at 31 December 2015
Sales
Total net realised and unrealised gains recognised in profit or loss
As at 31 December 2016

11. INTERESTS IN STRUCTURED ENTITIES
A. CONSOLIDATED STRUCTURED ENTITIES
The Group’s only consolidated structured entity is the EBT. The Group provides capital contributions to the EBT to enable it to meet its 
obligations to employees under the equity based compensation plans. The Group has a contractual agreement which may require it to provide 
financial support to the EBT.

B. UNCONSOLIDATED STRUCTURED ENTITIES IN WHICH THE GROUP HAS AN INTEREST
As part of its investment activities, the Group invests in unconsolidated structured entities. As at 31 December 2016, the Group’s total interest 
in unconsolidated structured entities was $431.5 million (31 December 2015 – $511.8 million). The Group does not sponsor any of the 
unconsolidated structured entities.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

141

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

11. INTERESTS IN STRUCTURED ENTITIES CONTINUED
A summary of the Group’s interest in unconsolidated structured entities is as follows:

As at 31 December 2016
Fixed maturity securities
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency commercial mortgage backed securities
Total fixed maturity securities
Investment funds
 – Hedge funds
Total investment funds
Specialised investment vehicles
 – KHL (see note 15)
Total

As at 31 December 2015
Fixed maturity securities
 – Asset backed securities
 – U.S. government agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency mortgage backed securities
 – Non-agency commercial mortgage backed securities
Total fixed maturity securities
Investment funds
 – Hedge funds
Total investment funds
Specialised investment vehicles
 – KHL (see note 15)
Total

Investments 
$m

Interest in 
associate 
$m

110.2
118.3
14.3
9.6
252.4

129.4
129.4

–
381.8

–
–
–
–
–

–
–

49.7
49.7

Investments 
$m

Interest in 
associate 
$m

113.9
143.8
21.8
28.8
308.3

156.0
156.0

–
464.3

–
–
–
–
–

–
–

47.5
47.5

Total 
$m

110.2
118.3
14.3
9.6
252.4

129.4
129.4

49.7
431.5

Total 
$m

113.9
143.8
21.8
28.8
308.3

156.0
156.0

47.5
511.8

The fixed maturity structured entities are created to meet specific investment needs of borrowers and investors which cannot be met from 
standardised financial instruments available in the capital markets. As such, they provide liquidity to the borrowers in these markets and 
provide investors with an opportunity to diversify risk away from standard fixed maturity securities. Whilst individual securities may differ  
in structure, the principles of the instruments are broadly the same and it is appropriate to aggregate the investments into the categories 
detailed above.

The risk that the Group faces in respect of the investments in structured entities is similar to the risk it faces in respect of other financial 
investments held on the consolidated balance sheet in that fair value is determined by market supply and demand. This is in turn driven by 
investor evaluation of the credit risk of the structure and changes in term structure of interest rates which change investors’ expectation of the 
cash flows associated with the instrument and, therefore, its value in the market. Risk management disclosure for these financial instruments 
and other investments is provided on pages 112 to 124. The total assets of these structured entities are not considered meaningful for the 
purpose of understanding the related risks and therefore have not been presented.

The maximum exposure to loss in respect of these structured entities would be the carrying value of the instruments that the Group holds  
as at 31 December 2016 and 31 December 2015. Generally, default rates would have to increase substantially from their current level before 
the Group would suffer a loss and this assessment is made prior to investing and continually through the holding period for the security. The 
Group has not provided any other financial or other support in addition to that described above as at the reporting date, and there are no 
intentions to provide support in relation to any other unconsolidated structured entities in the foreseeable future.

142 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

As at 31 December 2016 the Group has a commitment of $50.0 million (31 December 2015 – $50.0 million) in respect of a credit facility fund. 
The Group, via the fund, provides collateral for revolving credit facilities purchased at a discount from financial institutions and is at risk for its 
portion of any defaults on those revolving credit facilities. The Group’s proportionate share of these revolving credit facilities purchased by the 
fund as at 31 December 2016 is $37.5 million (31 December 2015 – $14.3 million), which currently remains unfunded. The maximum 
exposure to the credit facility fund is $50.0 million and as at 31 December 2016 there have been no defaults under this facility.

12. LOSSES AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES

As at 31 December 2014
Net incurred losses for:
Prior years
Current year
Exchange adjustments
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses
Net paid losses for:
Prior years
Current year
Paid losses and loss adjustment expenses
As at 31 December 2015
Net incurred losses for:
Prior years
Current year
Exchange adjustments
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses
Net paid losses for:
Prior years
Current year
Paid losses and loss adjustment expenses
As at 31 December 2016

Losses and  
loss adjustment 
expenses 
$m
752.6

Reinsurance 
recoveries 
$m
(112.4)

Net losses and 
loss adjustment 
expenses 
$m
640.2

(101.4)
278.9
4.9
182.4

210.0
54.0
264.0
671.0

(89.7)
301.9
(3.8)
208.4

139.4
60.2
199.6
679.8

(6.3)
(15.5)
0.8
(21.0)

(40.7)
(8.8)
(49.5)
(83.9)

3.9
(73.6)
1.4
(68.3)

(8.0)
(7.5)
(15.5)
(136.7)

(107.7)
263.4
5.7
161.4

169.3
45.2
214.5
587.1

(85.8)
228.3
(2.4)
140.1

131.4
52.7
184.1
543.1

Further information on the calculation of loss reserves and the risks associated with them is provided in the risk disclosures section from page 
109. The risks associated with general insurance contracts are complex and do not readily lend themselves to meaningful sensitivity analysis. 
The impact of an unreported event could lead to a significant increase in the Group’s loss reserves. The Group believes that the loss reserves 
established are adequate, however a 20.0 per cent increase in estimated losses would lead to a $136.0 million (2015 – $134.2 million) increase 
in gross loss reserves. There was no change to the Group’s reserving methodology during the year. The split of losses and loss adjustment 
expenses between notified outstanding losses, ACRs assessed by management and IBNR is shown below:

As at 31 December
Outstanding losses
Additional case reserves
Losses incurred but not reported
Total

2016

2015

$m
328.1
144.5
207.2
679.8

%
48.3
21.3
30.4
100.0

$m
286.0
162.1
222.9
671.0

%
42.6
24.2
33.2
100.0

The Group’s reserve for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses as at 31 December 2016 and 2015 had an estimated duration of 
approximately two years.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

143

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

12. LOSSES AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES CONTINUED
CLAIMS DEVELOPMENT
The development of insurance liabilities is indicative of the Group’s ability to estimate the ultimate value of its insurance liabilities. The Group 
began writing insurance and reinsurance business in December 2005. With the acquisition of Cathedral in 2013, the Group assumed 
additional loss reserves relating to 2001 and subsequent years.

Accident year
Gross Group losses
Estimate of ultimate liability1
At end of accident year
One year later
Two years later
Three years later
Four years later
Five years later
Six years later
Seven years later
Eight years later
Nine years later
Ten years later

2006 
and prior  
$m

2007 
$m

2008 
$m

2009 
$m

2010 
$m

2011 
$m

2012 
$m

2013 
$m

2014 
$m

2015 
$m

2016 
$m

Total 
$m

298.5

276.0
214.6

274.8
226.7
206.0

280.0
259.8
224.0
224.4

250.3
350.4
338.8
326.9
313.3

397.0
371.9
447.0
450.4
460.0
450.7

297.4
209.4
204.2
235.8
229.4
231.4
229.8

163.3
107.8
73.1
66.0
89.1
81.7
72.9
90.8

444.6
417.4
377.5
345.1
340.8
355.6
350.9
353.6
352.5

154.8
131.2
103.5
94.8
83.5
81.0
87.6
87.8
86.6
87.3

39.1
34.7
32.0
27.6
27.2
24.4
24.0
60.6
58.6
56.5
55.1

Current estimate of cumulative 
liability
Paid
Total Group gross liability

55.1
(31.1)
24.0

87.3
352.5
(81.6) (340.7)
11.8

5.7

(1)  Adjusted for revaluation of foreign currencies at the exchange rate as at 31 December 2016.

450.7

229.8

90.8
214.6
313.3
(60.8) (211.0) (349.0) (257.5) (185.1) (158.6) (107.6)
107.0
55.8
30.0

224.4

206.0

101.7

18.8

39.3

47.4

298.5
(60.2)
238.3

2,523.0
(1,843.2)
679.8

Accident year
Reinsurance
Estimate of ultimate recovery1
At end of accident year
One year later
Two years later
Three years later
Four years later
Five years later
Six years later
Seven years later
Eight years later
Nine years later
Ten years later

Current estimate of cumulative 
recovery
Paid
Total Group gross recovery

2006 
and prior  
$m

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
25.1
25.1
24.7
23.7

2007 
$m

2008 
$m

2009 
$m

2010 
$m

2011 
$m

2012 
$m

2013 
$m

2014 
$m

2015 
$m

2016 
$m

Total 
$m

73.1

15.3
12.2

17.8
14.1
13.1

9.9
8.9
8.8
8.0

48.9
121.8
122.0
121.2
121.2

56.2
52.6
92.4
88.9
103.3
102.8

33.8
23.6
24.1
33.5
34.4
34.6
35.7

1.6
1.3
0.7
0.7
10.0
7.0
2.5
2.5

40.7
47.1
43.1
40.9
38.1
40.7
39.8
40.4
40.9

3.6
6.2
4.0
3.5
3.3
3.1
4.0
4.1
4.1
4.1

23.7
(3.2)
20.5

4.1
(3.7)
0.4

40.9
(39.1)
1.8

2.5
(0.2)
2.3

35.7
(33.0)
2.7

102.8
121.2
(73.0) (116.4)
4.8
29.8

8.0
(6.9)
1.1

13.1
(7.9)
5.2

12.2
(9.7)
2.5

73.1
(7.5)
65.6

437.3
(300.6)
136.7

(1)  Adjusted for revaluation of foreign currencies at the exchange rate as at 31 December 2016.

144 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Accident year
Net Group losses
Estimate of ultimate liability1
At end of accident year
One year later
Two years later
Three years later
Four years later
Five years later
Six years later
Seven years later
Eight years later
Nine years later
Ten years later

2006 
and prior  
$m

2007 
$m

2008 
$m

2009 
$m

2010 
$m

2011 
$m

2012 
$m

2013 
$m

2014 
$m

2015 
$m

2016 
$m

Total 
$m

225.4

260.7
202.4

257.0
212.6
192.9

270.1
250.9
215.2
216.4

201.4
228.6
216.8
205.7
192.1

340.8
319.3
354.6
361.5
356.7
347.9

263.6
185.8
180.1
202.3
195.0
196.8
194.1

161.7
106.5
72.4
65.3
79.1
74.7
70.4
88.3

403.9
370.3
334.4
304.2
302.7
314.9
311.1
313.2
311.6

151.2
125.0
99.5
91.3
80.2
77.9
83.6
83.7
82.5
83.2

39.1
34.7
32.0
27.6
27.2
24.4
24.0
35.5
33.5
31.8
31.4

Current estimate of cumulative 
liability
Paid
Total Group net liability

31.4
(27.9)
3.5

83.2
311.6
(77.9) (301.6)
10.0

5.3

(1)  Adjusted for revaluation of foreign currencies at the exchange rate as at 31 December 2016.

194.1

347.9

88.3
192.9
(60.6) (178.0) (276.0) (141.1) (178.2) (150.7)
42.2
27.7

216.4

192.1

71.9

38.2

51.0

16.1

202.4
(97.9)
104.5

225.4
(52.7)
172.7

2,085.7
(1,542.6)
543.1

The inherent uncertainty in reserving gives rise to favourable or adverse development on the established reserves. The total favourable 
development on net losses and loss adjustment expenses, excluding the impact of foreign exchange revaluations, was as follows:

2006 accident year and prior
2007 accident year
2008 accident year
2009 accident year
2010 accident year
2011 accident year
2012 accident year
2013 accident year
2014 accident year
2015 accident year
Total favourable development

2016 
$m
0.3
(0.7)
1.6
(18.0)
3.2
9.9
13.5
(1.6)
19.9
57.7
85.8

2015 
$m
1.6
1.1
(2.1)
4.1
(3.5)
17.1
10.8
35.4
43.2
–
107.7

Despite some adverse development on prior accident year marine and energy claims during the year ended 31 December 2016, the overall 
favourable development was primarily due to general IBNR releases across most lines of business due to a lack of reported claims. Experience 
during the year ended 31 December 2015 was similar in terms of releases, plus there was a further benefit of additional recoveries on the 2011 
Thai flood losses.

13. INSURANCE, REINSURANCE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES
All receivables are considered current other than $58.4 million (31 December 2015 – $53.8 million) of inwards premiums receivable related to 
multi-year contracts. The carrying value approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the receivables. There are no significant 
concentrations of credit risk within the Group’s receivables.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

145

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

14. PROVISION FOR DEFERRED TAX

Equity based compensation
Claims equalisation reserves
Syndicate underwriting profits
Syndicate participation rights
Other temporary differences
Tax losses carried forward
Net deferred tax liability

2016 
$m
(3.8)
8.1
2.7
12.8
(0.9)
(0.2)
18.7

2015 
$m
(4.6)
14.6
3.3
13.6
0.6
(1.9)
25.6

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that realising the related tax benefit through future taxable profits is likely. It is anticipated 
that sufficient taxable profits will be available within the Group in 2017 and subsequent years to utilise the deferred tax assets recognised  
when the underlying temporary differences reverse.

A deferred tax asset of $11.4 million (31 December 2015 – $14.1 million) has not been recognised in relation to unused tax losses carried 
forward in LHL, because at present the related tax benefit is not expected to be realised through future taxable profits.

Changes to the UK main rate of corporation tax have been enacted under the Finance Act 2015 and Finance Act 2016 reducing the rate to 
19 per cent from 1 April 2017 and to 17 per cent from 1 April 2020.

All deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non-current.

15. INVESTMENT IN ASSOCIATE
The Group holds a 10.0 per cent interest in the preference shares of each segregated account of KHL, a company incorporated in Bermuda. 
KHL’s operating subsidiary, KRL, is authorised by the BMA as a Special Purpose Insurer. KRL commenced writing insurance business on 
1 January 2014. As at 31 December 2016, the carrying value of the Group’s investment in KHL was $49.7 million (31 December 2015 – 
$47.5 million). The Group’s share of comprehensive income for KHL for the period was $5.1 million (2015 – $4.1 million). Key financial 
information for KHL is as follows:

Assets
Liabilities
Shareholders’ equity
Gross premium earned
Comprehensive income

2016 
$m
506.5
9.2
497.3
54.2
51.1

2015 
$m
495.0
19.4
475.4
73.4
41.2

The Group has the power to participate in operational and financial policy decisions of KHL and KRL through the provision of essential 
technical information by KCML and has therefore classified its investment in KHL as an investment in associate.

Refer to note 22 for details of transactions between the Group and its associate.

16. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Net book value as at 31 December 2016 and 2015

Syndicate 
participation 
rights 
$m
82.6

Goodwill 
$m
71.2

Total 
$m
153.8

Syndicate participation rights and goodwill are deemed to have indefinite life as they are expected to have value in use that does not diminish 
over the course of time. Consequently, the carrying value is not amortised but tested annually for impairment.

For the purpose of impairment testing, intangible assets are allocated to the Group’s CGUs, in accordance with the manner in which 
management operates and monitors the business. The syndicate participation rights and goodwill have therefore been allocated to the 
Lloyd’s CGU.

When testing for impairment, the recoverable amount of the Lloyd’s CGU is determined based on value in use. Value in use is calculated  
using projected cash flows based on the financial projections of the CGU. These are approved by management and cover a three year period. 
The most significant assumptions used to derive the projected cash flows include an assessment of business prospects, projected loss ratios, 
outwards reinsurance expenditure and investment returns. A pre-tax discount rate of 6.9 per cent (31 December 2015 – 6.8 per cent) has been 
used to discount the projected cash flows, which reflects a combination of factors including the Group’s expected cost of equity and cost of 

146 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

borrowing. The growth rate used to extrapolate the cash flows of the unit beyond the three-year period is 3.0 per cent (2015 – 2.0 per cent) 
based on historical growth rates and management’s best estimate of future growth rates.

The results of this exercise indicate that the recoverable amount exceeds the intangible assets’ carrying value for both the syndicate 
participation rights and goodwill and would not be sensitive to any reasonably possible changes in assumptions. Therefore no impairment has 
been recognised during the years ended 31 December 2016 and 2015.

17. LONG-TERM DEBT AND FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
LONG-TERM DEBT
On 5 October 2012, the Group issued $130.0 million 5.70 per cent senior unsecured notes due 2022 pursuant to a private offering to U.S. 
Qualified Institutional Buyers. Interest on the principal is payable semi-annually. The notes were listed and admitted to trading on the LSE  
on 16 October 2012.

On 15 December 2005, the Group issued $97.0 million and €24.0 million in aggregate principal amount of floating rate subordinated  
loan notes. The U.S. dollar subordinated loan notes are repayable on 15 December 2035. Interest on the principal is based on a set margin, 
3.70 per cent, above the three-month LIBOR rate and is payable quarterly. The loan notes were issued via a trust company.

The Euro subordinated loan notes are repayable on 15 June 2035. Interest on the principal is based on a set margin, 3.70 per cent, above the 
EURIBOR rate and is payable quarterly. On 21 October 2011, the CSX admitted to the official list the LHL U.S. dollar and Euro subordinated 
loan notes due 2035.

In 2013, the Group assumed loan notes, issued by CCHL and listed on the ISE, as part of the Cathedral acquisition. The loan notes acquired 
are set out as follows:

•  €12.0 million floating rate subordinated loan note issued on 18 November 2004 and repayable in September 2034, paying interest quarterly 

based on a set margin, 3.75 per cent, above the three-month EURIBOR;

•  $10.0 million floating rate subordinated note loan issued on 26 November 2004 and repayable in September 2034, paying interest quarterly 

based on a set margin, 3.75 per cent, above the three-month LIBOR;

•  $25.0 million floating rate subordinated loan note issued on 13 May 2005 and repayable in June 2035, paying interest quarterly based on a 

set margin, 3.25 per cent, above the three-month LIBOR; and

•  $25.0 million floating rate subordinated loan note issued on 18 November 2005 and repayable in December 2035, paying interest quarterly 

based on a set margin, 3.25 per cent, above the three-month LIBOR.

The Group has the option to redeem its senior unsecured notes and all of its subordinated loan notes, in whole or in part, prior to the 
respective maturity dates.

The terms of the $130.0 million senior unsecured notes include standard default and cross-default provisions which require certain covenants 
to be adhered to. These include the following:

•  a maximum debt to capital ratio of 30.0 per cent, where the subordinated loan notes are included as both total consolidated debt and total 

consolidated capital in this calculation.

There are no such covenants for either the $97.0 million and €24.0 million in aggregate floating rate subordinated loan notes or the loan note 
issued by CCHL.

As at all reporting dates the Group was in compliance with all covenants under these facilities.

The carrying values of the notes are shown below:

As at 31 December
Long-term debt $130.0 million
Long-term debt $97.0 million
Long-term debt €24.0 million
Long-term debt €12.0 million
Long-term debt $10.0 million
Long-term debt $25.0 million
Long-term debt $25.0 million
Carrying value

2016 
$m
130.0
97.0
25.3
11.2
10.0
23.7
23.7
320.9

2015 
$m
130.0
97.0
26.2
11.7
10.0
23.7
23.7
322.3

The Group is exposed to cash flow interest rate risk and currency risk on its long-term debt. Further information is provided in the risk 
disclosures section on page 119.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

147

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

17. LONG-TERM DEBT AND FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS CONTINUED
The fair value of the long-term debt is estimated as $354.8 million (31 December 2015 – $328.8 million). The fair value measurement is 
classified within Level (ii) of the fair value hierarchy. The fair value is estimated by reference to similar financial instruments quoted in 
active markets.

The interest accrued on the long-term debt was $2.0 million (31 December 2015 – $2.2 million) at the balance sheet date and is included in 
other payables.

Refer to note 7 for details of the interest expense for the year included in financing costs.

INTEREST RATE SWAPS
The Group hedges a portion of its floating rate borrowings using interest rate swaps to transfer floating to fixed rate. These instruments are 
held at estimated fair value. Refer to the risk disclosures section from page 118 for further details. The Group has the right to net settle 
these instruments.

The net fair value position owed by the Group on the swap agreements is a $3.7 million liability (31 December 2015 – $4.8 million liability). 
Further information is provided on pages 116 and 118. Cash settlements are completed on a quarterly basis and the total of the next cash 
settlements in the first quarter of 2017 on these instruments is $0.5 million. The net impact from cash settlements and changes in estimated 
fair value are included in financing costs.

The interest rate swaps are held at estimated fair value, priced using observable market inputs, and are therefore classified as Level (ii) 
securities in the fair value hierarchy.

Refer to note 7 for the net impact from cash settlement and changes in estimated fair value included in financing costs.

LETTERS OF CREDIT
As both LICL and LUK are non-admitted insurers or reinsurers throughout the U.S., the terms of certain contracts require them to provide 
LOCs to policyholders as collateral. The following LOCs have been issued:

As at 31 December
Issued to third parties

LOCs are required to be fully collateralised.

LHL and LICL had the following facilities in place:

2016 
$m
29.4

2015 
$m
44.5

•  a $300.0 million syndicated collateralised credit facility with a $75.0 million loan sub-limit that has been in place since 24 March 2016 and 

will expire on 24 March 2021. There was no outstanding debt under this facility as at 31 December 2016; and

•  a $350.0 million syndicated collateralised credit facility with a $75.0 million loan sub-limit that had been in place since 5 April 2012 and was 
replaced on 24 March 2016 by the $300.0 million syndicated collateralised credit facility. There was no outstanding debt under this facility as 
at 31 December 2015.

The existing facility is available for the issue of LOCs to ceding companies. The facility is also available for LICL to issue LOCs to LUK to 
collateralise certain insurance balances.

The terms of the $300.0 million syndicated collateralised credit facility include standard default and cross-default provisions that are broadly 
consistent with the previous facility, which require certain covenants to be adhered to. These include the following:

•  an A.M. Best financial strength rating of at least B++;
•  a maximum debt to capital ratio of 30.0 per cent, where the subordinated loan notes are excluded from this calculation;
•  a maximum indebtedness regarding the subordinated loan notes of $250.0 million; and
•  a maximum indebtedness regarding the Syndicate 2010 and 3010 catastrophe facilities of $150.0 million.

As at all reporting dates the Group was in compliance with all covenants under these facilities.

148 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

SYNDICATE BANK FACILITIES
As at 31 December 2016 and 2015, Syndicate 2010 had in place an $80.0 million catastrophe facility with Barclays Bank plc. The facility is 
available to assist in paying claims and the gross funding of catastrophes for Syndicate 2010. Up to $40.0 million can be utilised by way of an 
LOC and up to $40.0 million by way of an RCF to assist Syndicate 2010’s gross funding requirements.

As at 31 December 2016 and 2015, Syndicate 3010 had in place a $40.0 million catastrophe facility with Barclays Bank plc. The facility is 
available to assist in paying claims and the gross funding of catastrophes for Syndicate 3010. Up to $20.0 million can be utilised by way of an 
LOC and up to $20.0 million by way of an RCF to assist Syndicate 3010’s gross funding requirements. This facility was not renewed for the 
2017 year.

The total combined maximum borrowings available to Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010 under these facilities are $100.0 million and  
the total combined maximum that can be utilised by way of an LOC is $50.0 million and by way of an RCF is $50.0 million to assist in both 
Syndicates’ gross funding requirements. For 2017, this facility is in place for Syndicate 2010 only, providing in aggregate up to $80.0 million 
with a total of $40.0 million available by way of LOCs and $40.0 million by way of RCFs.

There are no balances outstanding under either of the Syndicate bank facilities as at 31 December 2016 or 2015. The Syndicate bank facilities 
are not available to the Group other than through its participation on the Syndicates it supports.

TRUSTS AND RESTRICTED BALANCES
The Group has several trust arrangements in place in favour of policyholders and ceding companies in order to comply with the security 
requirements of certain reinsurance contracts and/or the regulatory requirements of certain jurisdictions.

In 2012, LICL entered into an MBRT to collateralise its reinsurance liabilities associated with U.S. domiciled clients. As at and for the years 
ended 31 December 2016 and 2015, LICL had been granted authorised or trusteed reinsurer status in all states. The MBRT is subject to the 
rules and regulations of the aforementioned states and the respective deeds of trust. These rules and regulations include minimum capital 
funding requirements, investment guidelines, capital distribution restrictions and regulatory reporting requirements.

As at and for the years ended 31 December 2016 and 2015, the Group was in compliance with all covenants under its trust facilities.

The Group is required to hold a portion of its assets as FAL to support the underwriting capacities of Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010. FAL 
are restricted in their use and are only drawn down to pay cash calls to Syndicates supported by the Group. FAL requirements are formally 
assessed twice a year and any funds surplus to requirements may be released at that time. See page 128 for more information regarding 
FAL requirements.

In addition to the FAL, certain cash and investments held by Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010 are only available for paying the Syndicates’ 
claims and expenses. See page 128 for more information regarding capital requirements for Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010.

The following cash and cash equivalents and investment balances were held in trust, other collateral accounts in favour of third parties, or are 
otherwise restricted:

As at 31 December
MBRT accounts
In trust accounts for policyholders
In favour of LOCs
In favour of derivative contracts
FAL
Syndicate accounts
Total

Cash and cash 
equivalents 
$m
5.6
3.7
6.2
3.8
13.5
26.8
59.6

2016

Fixed maturity 
securities 
$m
35.1
21.4
29.4
0.3
254.1
75.9
416.2

Equity 
securities  
$m
–
–
–
–
1.4
–
1.4

Cash and cash 
equivalents 
$m
0.6
0.9
7.4
6.0
11.3
9.4
35.6

2015

Fixed maturity 
securities 
$m
31.3
21.7
43.4
0.3
201.4
85.8
383.9

Equity 
securities  
$m
–
–
–
–
15.6
–
15.6

www.lancashiregroup.com 

149

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

18. SHARE CAPITAL

Authorised ordinary shares of $0.50 each
As at 31 December 2016 and 2015

Allocated, called up and fully paid
As at 31 December 2014
Shares issued
As at 31 December 2016 and 2015

Number
3,000,000,000

Number
192,112,598
9,229,320
201,341,918

The new common shares issued during 2015 were to satisfy the exercises of warrants and to fund future RSS exercises.

Own shares
As at 31 December 2014
Shares distributed
Shares purchased by trust
As at 31 December 2015
Shares distributed
Shares donated to trust
As at 31 December 2016

Number held 
in treasury
2,950,947
(1,109,421)
–
1,841,526
–
(426,468)
1,415,058

$m
27.8
(9.7)
–
18.1
–
(4.1)
14.0

Number held 
in trust
1,657,069
(1,354,535)
1,000,000
1,302,534
(680,033)
426,468
1,048,969

$m
15.5
(12.5)
9.3
12.3
(6.6)
3.5
9.2

Total number  
of own shares
4,608,016
(2,463,956)
1,000,000
3,144,060
(680,033)
–
2,464,027

$m
1,500

$m
96.1
4.6
100.7

$m
43.3
(22.2)
9.3
30.4
(6.6)
(0.6)
23.2

The number of common shares in issue with voting rights (allocated share capital less shares held in treasury) as at 31 December 2016 was 
199,926,860 (31 December 2015 – 199,500,392).

SHARE REPURCHASES
At the AGM held on 4 May 2016, LHL’s shareholders approved a renewal of the Repurchase Programme authorising the repurchase of a 
maximum of 20,134,191 shares, with such authority to expire on the conclusion of the 2017 AGM or, if earlier, 15 months from the date the 
resolution approving the Repurchase Programme was passed.

During the year ended 31 December 2016, 426,468 shares (2015 – nil shares) were donated to the EBT at a market value of $3.5 million.

In 2016, the trustees of the EBT acquired nil shares (2015 – 1,000,000) in accordance with the terms of the trust and distributed 680,033  
(2015 – 1,354,535). There were no unsettled balances in relation to EBT purchases at either balance sheet date.

DIVIDENDS
The Board of Directors have authorised the following dividends:

Type
Final
Special
Interim
Special
Final
Interim
Special

Per share amount
$0.10
$0.50
$0.05
$0.95
$0.10
$0.05
$0.75

Record date
20 Mar 2015
20 Mar 2015
28 Aug 2015
27 Nov 2015
26 Feb 2016
5 Aug 2016
18 Nov 2016

Payment date
15 Apr 2015
15 Apr 2015
25 Sep 2015
18 Dec 2015
23 Mar 2016
31 Aug 2016
14 Dec 2016

$m
19.8
99.2
9.9
188.6
19.8
10.0
149.1

150 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

19. OTHER RESERVES
Other reserves consist of the following:

As at 31 December 2014
Purchase of shares by trust
Distributed by trust
Warrant exercises
Equity based compensation – tax
Equity based compensation – exercises
Equity based compensation – expense
As at 31 December 2015
Shares donated to the trust
Distributed by trust
Equity based compensation – exercises
Equity based compensation – expense
As at 31 December 2016

Contributed 
surplus  
$m
838.4
8.8
(17.2)
(4.2)
–
13.8
–
839.6
(0.6)
(9.5)
10.0
–
839.5

Equity based 
compensation 
$m
48.7
–
–
(9.6)
0.1
(13.8)
15.8
41.2
–
–
(10.0)
10.9
42.1

Total other 
reserves 
$m
887.1
8.8
(17.2)
(13.8)
0.1
–
15.8
880.8
(0.6)
(9.5)
–
10.9
881.6

Equity based compensation reserves represent the fair value, at the grant date, of all outstanding RSS options and management team ordinary 
and performance warrants, adjusted for any applicable performance conditions.

During the year ended 31 December 2015 all of the remaining Founder warrants were exercised and amounted to $39.4 million. The 
remaining number of warrants were exercised at a weighted average share price at date of exercise during 2015 of $9.98 as follows:

Exercised

Number of 
Founder warrants
15,032,679

Number of 
Lancashire 
Foundation 
warrants
648,143

Number of 
ordinary  
warrants
2,350,000

www.lancashiregroup.com 

151

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

20. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
A. LEASE COMMITMENTS
The Group has payment obligations in respect of operating leases for certain items of office equipment and office space. Operating lease 
expenses for the year were $2.3 million (2015 – $3.4 million).

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

Due in less than one year
Due between one and five years
Due in more than five years
Total

2016 
$m
3.0
10.2
28.1
41.3

2015 
$m
1.1
12.7
36.6
50.4

During 2014, the Group entered into a new lease agreement for larger office premises in the UK and assigned the leases in relation to the 
existing office premises in the UK to a third party who assumed responsibility for payments. Under the terms of the lease assignment the 
Group retains liability for lease payments in the event that the assignee and the assignee’s guarantor fail to meet their obligations under  
the assignment agreements. The new lease agreement contains a break date of April 2029 and is guaranteed by the Group.

B. CREDIT FACILITY FUND
At as 31 December 2016 the Group has a commitment of $50.0 million (31 December 2015 – $50.0 million) relating to a credit facility fund 
(refer to note 11).

C. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND REGULATIONS
The Group operates in the insurance industry and is subject to legal proceedings in the normal course of business. While it is not practicable 
to estimate or determine the final results of all pending or threatened legal proceedings, management does not believe that such proceedings 
(including litigation) will have a material effect on its results and financial position.

21. EARNINGS PER SHARE
The following reflects the profit and share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

Profit for the year attributable to equity shareholders of LHL

2016 
$m
153.8

2015 
$m
181.1

Basic weighted average number of shares
Dilutive effect of RSS
Diluted weighted average number of shares

Earnings per share
Basic
Diluted

2016 
Number  
of shares

2015 
Number  
of shares
198,565,378 195,649,042
2,982,711
201,466,427 198,631,753

2,901,049

2016
$0.77
$0.76

2015
$0.93
$0.91

Equity based compensation awards are only treated as dilutive when their conversion to common shares would decrease earnings per share  
or increase loss per share from continuing operations. Unvested restricted shares without performance criteria are therefore included in the 
number of potentially dilutive shares. Incremental shares from ordinary restricted share options where relevant performance criteria have  
not been met are not included in the calculation of dilutive shares.

152 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

22. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
The consolidated financial statements include LHL and the entities listed below:

Name
Subsidiaries1
LICL
KCML2
KCMMSL
LIHL
LIMSL
LISL
LUK
LMSCL
CCHL
CCL
CCL 1998
CCL 1999
CCSL
CUL
Associate
KHL
Other controlled entities
LHFT
EBT

Principal Business

Domicile

General insurance business
Insurance management services
Support services
Holding company
Insurance mediation activities
Support services
General insurance business
Support services
Investment company
Holding company
Lloyd’s corporate member
Non trading
Support services
Lloyd’s managing agent

Holding company

Trust
Trust

Bermuda
Bermuda
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Canada
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom

Bermuda

United States
Jersey

(1)  Unless otherwise stated, the Group owns 100 per cent of the ordinary share capital and voting rights in its subsidiaries listed below.
(2)  92.68 per cent owned by the Group.

The Group has issued subordinated loan notes via a trust vehicle – LHFT, refer to note 17. The Group effectively has 100.0 per cent of the 
voting rights in LHFT. These rights are subject to the property trustee’s obligations to seek the approval of the holders of LHFT’s preferred 
securities in case of default and other limited circumstances where the property trustee would enforce its rights. While the ability of the Group 
to influence the actions of LHFT is limited by the trust agreement, LHFT was set up by the Group with the sole purpose of issuing the 
subordinated loan notes, and is in essence controlled by the Group, and is therefore consolidated.

The EBT was established to assist in the administration of the Group’s employee equity based compensation schemes. While the Group does 
not have legal ownership of the EBT and the ability of the Group to influence the actions of the EBT is limited by the trust deed, the EBT was 
set up by the Group with the sole purpose of assisting in the administration of these schemes, and is in essence controlled by the Group, and  
is therefore consolidated.

The Group has a Loan Facility Agreement (the ‘Facility’) with RBC Cees Trustee Limited, the trustee of the EBT. The Facility is an interest free 
revolving credit facility under which the trustee can request advances on demand, within the terms of the Facility, up to a maximum aggregate 
amount of $60.0 million. The Facility may only be used by the trustee for the purpose of achieving the objectives of the EBT. During the year 
ended 31 December 2016, the Group had made advances of $nil (2015 – $9.0 million) to the EBT under the terms of the Facility.

During the year ended 31 December 2016, the Group donated 426,468 treasury shares to the EBT at the prevailing market rate. The total 
value of the treasury share donation was $3.5 million. During the year ended 31 December 2015, the Group issued 1,000,000 shares to the  
EBT at a total par value of $0.5 million.

www.lancashiregroup.com 

153

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

22. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES CONTINUED
LICL holds $290.8 million (31 December 2015 – $308.1 million) of cash and cash equivalents, fixed maturity securities and accrued interest in 
trust for the benefit of LUK relating to intra-group reinsurance agreements. LICL is required to provide 85.0 per cent of the required FAL to 
support the underwriting activities of Syndicate 2010 and 3010 and holds $230.0 million (31 December 2015 – $182.9 million) of cash and 
cash equivalents and fixed maturity securities in FAL in relation to intra-group reinsurance agreements.

The senior management team shareholding in KCML now represents a minority interest of 7.32 per cent. This investment represents the 
non-controlling interest listed in the Group’s consolidated balance sheet. During the year ended 31 December 2016 dividends of $0.5 million 
(31 December 2015 – $0.6 million) were paid to minority interest holders.

As at 31 December 2016 and 2015, Mr Alex Maloney, a director of LHL, had a 1.156 per cent interest in KCML. During the year ended 
31 December 2016 Mr Maloney received a dividend of $0.1 million (31 December 2015 – $0.1 million) in relation to his interest in KCML.

Mr Maloney and his spouse, acquired 100.0 per cent of the shares in Nameco on 7 November 2016. Nameco provides capacity to a number of 
Lloyd’s syndicates including Syndicate 2010 which is managed by CUL. Nameco has provided $0.2 million of capacity to Syndicate 2010 for the 
2017 year of account. Mr Maloney receives a proportionate share of the underwriting results of Syndicate 2010 to which he is contractually 
entitled through his participation.

KEY MANAGEMENT COMPENSATION
Remuneration for key management, the Group’s Executive and Non-Executive Directors, was as follows:

For the year ended 31 December
Short-term compensation
Equity based compensation
Directors’ fees and expenses
Total

2016 
$m
3.2
3.3
2.2
8.7

2015 
$m
4.1
3.3
1.9
9.3

Non-Executive Directors do not receive any benefits in addition to their agreed fees and expenses and do not participate in any of the Group’s 
incentive, performance or pension plans.

TRANSACTIONS WITH ASSOCIATE
In 2013, KCML entered into an underwriting services agreement with KRL and KHL to provide various services relating to underwriting, 
actuarial, premium payments and relevant deductions, acquisition expenses and receipt of claims. For the year ended 31 December 2016, the 
Group recognised $10.6 million (2015 – $12.9 million) of service fees and profit commissions in other income in relation to this agreement.

During 2016, the Group committed an additional $25.8 million (31 December 2015 – $23.5 million) of capital to KHL. During 2016, KHL 
returned $28.7 million (31 December 2015 – $32.8 million) of capital to the Group.

Refer to note 15 for further details on the Group’s investment in associate.

23. NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS
The Group did not engage in any non-cash transactions during 2016. During 2015, the Group issued new common shares to satisfy future 
exercises of RSS in the amount of $4.6 million; refer to note 18 for further details.

24. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
DIVIDEND
On 15 February 2017 the Board of Directors declared the payment of an ordinary dividend of $0.10 per common share to shareholders of 
record on 24 February 2017, with a settlement date of 22 March 2017. The ordinary dividend payable will be approximately $19.8 million.  
An amount equivalent to the dividend accrues on all RSS options and is paid at the time of exercise, pro-rata according to the number of RSS 
options that vest.

154 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION 

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 
The Company’s AGM is scheduled for 3 May 2017. Notice of this 
year’s AGM and the form of proxy accompany this Annual Report 
and Accounts. If you have any queries regarding the notice or return 
of the proxy please contact Chris Head, Company Secretary, at 
Lancashire Holdings Limited, 29th Floor, 20 Fenchurch Street, 
London EC3M 3BY, United Kingdom, Tel: + 44 (0) 20 7264 4000 
and email: chris.head@lancashiregroup.com.  

FURTHER INFORMATION 
Lancashire Holdings Limited is registered in Bermuda under 
company number EC 37415 and has its registered office at  
Power House, 7 Par-la-Ville Road, Hamilton HM 11, Bermuda. 

Further information about the Group including this Annual Report, 
press releases and the Company’s share price is available on our 
website at www.lancashiregroup.com. Please address any enquiries  
to info@lancashiregroup.com. 

NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 
Some of the statements in this document include forward-looking 
statements which reflect the Directors’ current views with respect  
to financial performance, business strategy, plans and objectives of 
management for future operations (including development plans 
relating to the Group’s products and services). These statements 
include forward-looking statements both with respect to the Group 
and the sectors and industries in which the Group operates. 
Statements containing the words ‘believes’, ‘anticipates’, ‘plans’, 
‘projects’, ‘forecasts’, ‘guidance’, ‘intends’, ‘expects’, ‘estimates’, 
‘predicts’, ‘may’, ‘can’, ‘likely’, ‘will’, ‘seeks’, ‘should’ or, in each 
case, their negative or comparable terminology and similar 
statements are of a future or forward-looking nature. All forward-
looking statements address matters that involve known and unknown 
risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there are or will be important 
factors that could cause the actual results, performance or 
achievements of the Group to be materially different from future 
results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such 
forward-looking statements.  

These factors include, but are not limited to: the Group’s ability  
to integrate its business and personnel, the successful retention and 
motivation of the Group’s key management, the increased regulatory 
burden facing the Group, the number and type of insurance and 
reinsurance contracts that the Group writes or the Group may write; 
the Group’s ability to successfully implement its business strategy 
during ‘soft’ as well as ‘hard’ markets; the premium rates which may 
be available at the time of such renewals within its targeted business 
lines; the possible low frequency of large events; potentially unusual 
loss frequency; the impact that the Group’s future operating results, 
capital position and rating agency and other considerations may have 
on the execution of any capital management initiatives or dividends; 
the possibility of greater frequency or severity of claims and loss 
activity than the Group’s underwriting, reserving or investment 
practices have anticipated; the reliability of, and changes in 
assumptions to, catastrophe pricing, accumulation and estimated  

loss models; increased competition from existing alternative capital 
providers and insurance linked funds and collateralised special 
purpose insurers and the related demand and supply dynamics  
as contracts come up for renewal; the effectiveness of its loss 
limitation methods; the potential loss of key personnel; a decline in 
the Group’s operating subsidiaries’ rating with A.M.Best, Standard & 
Poor’s, Moody’s or other rating agencies; increased competition on 
the basis of pricing, capacity, coverage terms or other factors; cyclical 
downturns of the industry; the impact of a deteriorating credit 
environment for issuers of fixed maturity investments; the impact  
of swings in market interest rates, currency exchange rates and 
securities prices; changes by central banks regarding the level  
of interest rates; the impact of inflation or deflation in relevant 
economies in which the Group operates; the effect, timing and other 
uncertainties surrounding future business combinations within the 
insurance and reinsurance industries; the impact of terrorist activity 
in the countries in which the Group writes risks; a rating downgrade 
of, or a market decline in, securities in its investment portfolio; 
changes in governmental regulations or tax laws in jurisdictions 
where the Group conducts business; Lancashire or its Bermudian 
subsidiaries becoming subject to income taxes in the United States  
or the Bermudian subsidiaries becoming subject to income taxes in 
the United Kingdom; the inapplicability to the Group of suitable 
exclusions from the UK CFC regime; any change in UK government 
policy which impacts the CFC regime or other tax changes; and the 
impact of the Brexit vote and future negotiations regarding the  
UK’s relationship with the European Union in the recent in-or-out 
referendum on the Group’s business, regulatory relationships, 
underwriting platforms or the industry generally. 

Any estimates relating to loss events involve the exercise of 
considerable judgement and reflect a combination of ground-up 
evaluations, information available to date from brokers and insureds, 
market intelligence, initial and/or tentative loss reports and other 
sources. Judgements in relation to loss arising from natural 
catastrophe and man-made events are influenced by complex  
factors. The Group cautions as to the preliminary nature of the 
information used to prepare such estimates as subsequently available 
information may contribute to an increase in these types of losses. 

These forward-looking statements speak only as at the date of  
this document. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or 
undertaking (save as required to comply with any legal or regulatory 
obligations including the rules of the LSE) to disseminate any 
updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any 
changes in the Group’s expectations or circumstances on which any 
such statement is based. All subsequent written and oral forward-
looking statements attributable to the Group or individuals acting  
on behalf of the Group are expressly qualified in their entirety by 
this paragraph. Prospective investors should specifically consider  
the factors identified in this document which could cause actual 
results to differ before making an investment decision. 

www.lancashiregroup.com 

www.lancashiregroup.com 171 
155

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
GLOSSARY 

ABS 
Asset backed securities 

ACTIVE UNDERWRITER 
The individual at a Lloyd’s syndicate with principal authority to 
accept insurance and reinsurance risk on behalf of the syndicate 

ADDITIONAL CASE RESERVES (ACR) 
Additional reserves deemed necessary by management 

AFS 
Available for sale 

AGGREGATE 
Accumulations of insurance loss exposures which result from 
underwriting multiple risks that are exposed to common causes  
of loss 

AGM 
Annual General Meeting 

AIM 
A sub-market of the LSE 

AIR 
AIR Worldwide 

A.M. BEST COMPANY (A.M. BEST)  
A.M. Best is a full-service credit rating organisation dedicated  
to serving the financial services industries, focusing on the  
insurance sector  

BAM 
Bathwater aggregate model 

BEST LANCASHIRE ASSESSMENT OF SOLVENCY OVER TIME (BLAST) 
The Group’s economic internal capital model  

BMA 
Bermuda Monetary Authority 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 
Unless otherwise stated refers to the LHL Board of Directors 

BOOK VALUE PER SHARE (BVS) 
Calculated by dividing the value of the total shareholders’ equity  
by the sum of all common voting shares outstanding 

BSCR 
Bermuda Solvency Capital Requirement 

BSX 
Bermuda Stock Exchange 

CATHEDRAL; CATHEDRAL GROUP 
Refers to CCL and all direct and indirect subsidiaries of CCL 

CCHL 
Cathedral Capital Holdings Limited 

CCL 
Cathedral Capital Limited 

CCL 1998 
Cathedral Capital (1998) Limited 

172 
156 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2015 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

CCL 1999 
Cathedral Capital (1999) Limited 

CCSL 
Cathedral Capital Services Limited 

CEDED 
To transfer insurance risk from a direct insurer to a reinsurer and/or 
from a reinsurer to a retrocessionaire 

CEND 
Confiscation, Expropriation, Nationalisation and Deprivation 

CEO 
Chief Executive Officer 

CFC 
Controlled Foreign Company 

CFO 
Chief Financial Officer 

CGU 
Cash generating unit 

CMBS 
Commercial mortgage backed securities 

THE CODE 
UK Corporate Governance Code published by the UK FRC 

COMBINED RATIO 
Ratio, in per cent, of the sum of net insurance losses, net acquisition 
expenses and other operating expenses to net premiums earned 

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
Includes the independent auditors’ report, consolidated primary 
statements, accounting policies, risk disclosures and related notes 

CONSOLIDATED PRIMARY STATEMENTS 
Includes the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, 
consolidated balance sheet, consolidated statement of changes in 
shareholders’ equity and the statement of consolidated cash flows 

COVERHOLDER AT LLOYD’S 
A coverholder is a company or partnership authorised by a managing 
agent to enter into a contract or contracts of insurance to be 
underwritten by the members of a syndicate managed by it in 
accordance with the terms of a binding authority 

CRO 
Chief Risk Officer 

CSX 
Cayman Islands Stock Exchange 

CUL 
Cathedral Underwriting Limited 

CUO 
Chief Underwriting Officer 

 
 
GLOSSARY 

ABS 

Asset backed securities 

ACTIVE UNDERWRITER 

AFS 

Available for sale 

AGGREGATE 

of loss 

AGM 

AIM 

AIR 

Annual General Meeting 

A sub-market of the LSE 

AIR Worldwide 

The individual at a Lloyd’s syndicate with principal authority to 

Cathedral Capital Services Limited 

accept insurance and reinsurance risk on behalf of the syndicate 

ADDITIONAL CASE RESERVES (ACR) 

To transfer insurance risk from a direct insurer to a reinsurer and/or 

Additional reserves deemed necessary by management 

from a reinsurer to a retrocessionaire 

Confiscation, Expropriation, Nationalisation and Deprivation 

Accumulations of insurance loss exposures which result from 

Chief Executive Officer 

underwriting multiple risks that are exposed to common causes  

Cathedral Capital (1999) Limited 

CCL 1999 

CCSL 

CEDED 

CEND 

CEO 

CFC 

CFO 

CGU 

CMBS 

Controlled Foreign Company 

Chief Financial Officer 

Cash generating unit 

A.M. BEST COMPANY (A.M. BEST)  

A.M. Best is a full-service credit rating organisation dedicated  

to serving the financial services industries, focusing on the  

insurance sector  

THE CODE 

COMBINED RATIO 

UK Corporate Governance Code published by the UK FRC 

Commercial mortgage backed securities 

Bathwater aggregate model 

BEST LANCASHIRE ASSESSMENT OF SOLVENCY OVER TIME (BLAST) 

The Group’s economic internal capital model  

Bermuda Monetary Authority 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

Ratio, in per cent, of the sum of net insurance losses, net acquisition 

expenses and other operating expenses to net premiums earned 

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

Includes the independent auditors’ report, consolidated primary 

statements, accounting policies, risk disclosures and related notes 

CONSOLIDATED PRIMARY STATEMENTS 

Includes the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, 

consolidated balance sheet, consolidated statement of changes in 

Unless otherwise stated refers to the LHL Board of Directors 

shareholders’ equity and the statement of consolidated cash flows 

BOOK VALUE PER SHARE (BVS) 

COVERHOLDER AT LLOYD’S 

Calculated by dividing the value of the total shareholders’ equity  

A coverholder is a company or partnership authorised by a managing 

by the sum of all common voting shares outstanding 

agent to enter into a contract or contracts of insurance to be 

underwritten by the members of a syndicate managed by it in 

accordance with the terms of a binding authority 

Refers to CCL and all direct and indirect subsidiaries of CCL 

Cayman Islands Stock Exchange 

Chief Risk Officer 

CRO 

CSX 

CUL 

CUO 

Cathedral Underwriting Limited 

Chief Underwriting Officer 

BAM 

BMA 

BSCR 

BSX 

CCHL 

CCL 

Bermuda Solvency Capital Requirement 

Bermuda Stock Exchange 

CATHEDRAL; CATHEDRAL GROUP 

Cathedral Capital Holdings Limited 

Cathedral Capital Limited 

CCL 1998 

Cathedral Capital (1998) Limited 

DEFERRED ACQUISITION COSTS  
Costs incurred for the acquisition or the renewal of insurance 
policies (e.g. brokerage and premium taxes) which are deferred  
and amortised over the term of the insurance contracts to which  
they relate 

DELEGATED AUTHORITIES 
An arrangement under which a Managing Agent or (re)insurer 
delegates its authority to another to enter into contracts of insurance 
on their behalf. 

DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE 
Calculated by dividing the net profit for the year attributable to 
shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares 
outstanding during the year plus the weighted average number  
of common shares that would be issued on the conversion of all 
potentially dilutive equity based compensation awards into  
common shares under the treasury stock method 

DIVIDEND YIELD 
Calculated by dividing the annual dividends per share by the share 
price on the last day of the given year 

DIRECTORS’ FEES AND EXPENSES 
Unless otherwise stated includes fees and expenses of all Directors 
across the Group 

DURATION 
Duration is the weighted average maturity of a security’s cash flows, 
where the present values of the cash flows serve as the weights  

The effect of the convexity, or sensitivity, of the portfolio’s response 
to changes in interest rates is also factored in to the calculation 

EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)  
Calculated by dividing net profit for the year attributable to 
shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares 
outstanding during the year, excluding treasury shares and shares 
held by the EBT 

EBT 
Lancashire Holdings Employee Benefit Trust 

ECA 
Economic Capital Assessment 

EEA 
European Economic Area 

ERM 
Enterprise Risk Management 

EURIBOR 
The Euro Interbank Offered Rate 

EXCESS OF LOSS  
Reinsurance or insurance that indemnifies the reinsured or insured 
against all or a specified portion of losses on an underlying insurance 
policy in excess of a specified amount 

EXPENSE RATIO 
Ratio, in per cent, of other operating expenses to net  
premiums earned 

EY 
Ernst & Young LLP 

FACULTATIVE REINSURANCE 
A reinsurance risk that is placed by means of a separately negotiated 
contract as opposed to one that is ceded under a reinsurance treaty 

FAL 
Funds at Lloyd’s 

FCA 
Financial Conduct Authority 

FPSO 
Floating production storage and offloading 

FRC 
Financial Reporting Council 

FSMA 
The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (as amended from time 
to time) 

FULLY CONVERTED BOOK VALUE PER SHARE (FCBVS) 
Calculated by dividing the value of the total shareholders’ equity plus 
the proceeds that would be received from the exercise of all dilutive 
equity compensation awards, by the sum of all shares, including 
equity compensation awards assuming all are exercised 

FVTPL 
Fair value through profit or loss 

G10 
Belgium, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, 
Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States 

GROSS PREMIUMS WRITTEN 
Amounts payable by the insured, excluding any taxes or duties levied 
on the premium, including any brokerage and commission deducted 
by intermediaries  

THE GROUP  
LHL and its subsidiaries 

ICM 
International Care Ministries 

IFRIC 
International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee 

IFRS 
International Financial Reporting Standard(s) 

INCURRED BUT NOT REPORTED (IBNR)  
These are anticipated or likely losses that may result from insured 
events which have taken place, but for which no losses have yet been 
reported. IBNR also includes a reserve for possible adverse 
development of previously reported losses 

INDUSTRY LOSS WARRANTY (ILW) 
A type of reinsurance or derivative contract through which one party 
will purchase protection based on the total loss arising from an event 
to the entire insurance industry rather than their own losses 

172 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2015 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

173 
157

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
 
 
GLOSSARY CONTINUED 

INTERNAL AUDIT CHARTER 
Is a formal written document that sets out the mission, scope, 
responsibilities, authority, professional standards and the relationship 
with the external auditors / regulatory bodies of the internal audit 
function (‘internal audit’) with the Company and its subsidiaries 

LIHL 
Lancashire Insurance Holdings (UK) Limited 

LIMSL 
Lancashire Insurance Marketing Services Limited 

INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNTING STANDARD(S) (IAS) 
Standards, created by the IASB, for the preparation and presentation 
of financial statements 

INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD (IASB)  
An international panel of accounting experts responsible for 
developing IAS and IFRS 

IRR 
Internal rate of return 

IRRC 
Investment Risk and Return Committee 

ISA 
International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) 

ISE 
Irish Stock Exchange 

KCML 
Kinesis Capital Management Limited 

KCMMSL 
KCM Marketing Services Limited  

KHL  
Kinesis Holdings I Limited 

KINESIS 
The Group’s third-party capital management division encompassing 
KCML, KCMMSL and the management of KHL and KRL 

KPMG 
KPMG LLP, a UK limited liability partnership 

KRL (KINESIS RE) 
Kinesis Reinsurance I Limited 

LANCASHIRE COMPANIES 
Refers to the Group excluding Cathedral and Kinesis 

LANCASHIRE FOUNDATION OR FOUNDATION 
The Lancashire Foundation is a charity registered in England  
and Wales 

LHFT 
Lancashire Holdings Financing Trust I Limited 

LISL 
Lancashire Insurance Services Limited 

LISTING RULES  
The listing rules made by the FCA under part VI of FSMA  
(as amended from time to time) 

LLOYD’S 
The Society of Lloyd’s 

LMSCL 
Lancashire Management Services (Canada) Limited 

LOC 
Letter of credit 

LOSSES 
Demand by an insured for indemnity under an insurance contract 

LSE 
London Stock Exchange 

LUK 
Lancashire Insurance Company (UK) Limited 

M&A 
Mergers and acquisitions 

MBRT 
Multi-beneficiary reinsurance trust 

MBS 
Mortgage backed securities 

MOODY’S INVESTORS SERVICES (MOODY’S) 
Moody’s Corporation is the parent company of Moody’s Investors 
Service, which provides credit ratings and research covering debt 
instruments and securities, and Moody’s Analytics, which offers 
software, advisory services and research for credit and economic 
analysis and financial risk management 

MSF 
Médecins Sans Frontières 

NAMES 
An individual member underwriting with unlimited liability.  
Since 6 March 2003 no person has been admitted as a new member 
to underwrite on an unlimited basis 

LHL (THE COMPANY) 
Lancashire Holdings Limited 

LIBOR 
London Interbank Offered Rate 

NAMECO 
Nameco (No. 801) Ltd 

NAV 
Net asset value 

LICL 
Lancashire Insurance Company Limited 

NBS 
New Bridge Street (a trading name of Aon Hewitt Limited) 

174 
158 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

 
GLOSSARY CONTINUED 

INTERNAL AUDIT CHARTER 

Is a formal written document that sets out the mission, scope, 

Lancashire Insurance Holdings (UK) Limited 

responsibilities, authority, professional standards and the relationship 

with the external auditors / regulatory bodies of the internal audit 

function (‘internal audit’) with the Company and its subsidiaries 

Lancashire Insurance Marketing Services Limited 

LIHL 

LIMSL 

LISL 

INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNTING STANDARD(S) (IAS) 

Standards, created by the IASB, for the preparation and presentation 

Lancashire Insurance Services Limited 

of financial statements 

INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD (IASB)  

An international panel of accounting experts responsible for 

developing IAS and IFRS 

LISTING RULES  

The listing rules made by the FCA under part VI of FSMA  

(as amended from time to time) 

International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) 

Demand by an insured for indemnity under an insurance contract 

Lancashire Management Services (Canada) Limited 

LLOYD’S 

The Society of Lloyd’s 

LMSCL 

LOC 

Letter of credit 

LOSSES 

London Stock Exchange 

Lancashire Insurance Company (UK) Limited 

Mergers and acquisitions 

Multi-beneficiary reinsurance trust 

LSE 

LUK 

M&A 

MBRT 

MBS 

MSF 

NAMES 

NAMECO 

Nameco (No. 801) Ltd 

Net asset value 

NAV 

NBS 

The Group’s third-party capital management division encompassing 

KCML, KCMMSL and the management of KHL and KRL 

Mortgage backed securities 

KPMG LLP, a UK limited liability partnership 

KRL (KINESIS RE) 

Kinesis Reinsurance I Limited 

LANCASHIRE COMPANIES 

Refers to the Group excluding Cathedral and Kinesis 

MOODY’S INVESTORS SERVICES (MOODY’S) 

Moody’s Corporation is the parent company of Moody’s Investors 

Service, which provides credit ratings and research covering debt 

instruments and securities, and Moody’s Analytics, which offers 

software, advisory services and research for credit and economic 

analysis and financial risk management 

LANCASHIRE FOUNDATION OR FOUNDATION 

Médecins Sans Frontières 

The Lancashire Foundation is a charity registered in England  

Lancashire Holdings Financing Trust I Limited 

to underwrite on an unlimited basis 

An individual member underwriting with unlimited liability.  

Since 6 March 2003 no person has been admitted as a new member 

Lancashire Insurance Company Limited 

New Bridge Street (a trading name of Aon Hewitt Limited) 

Internal rate of return 

Investment Risk and Return Committee 

Irish Stock Exchange 

Kinesis Capital Management Limited 

KCM Marketing Services Limited  

Kinesis Holdings I Limited 

IRR 

IRRC 

ISA 

ISE 

KCML 

KCMMSL 

KHL  

KINESIS 

KPMG 

and Wales 

LHFT 

LIBOR 

LICL 

LHL (THE COMPANY) 

Lancashire Holdings Limited 

London Interbank Offered Rate 

NET ACQUISITION COST RATIO 
Ratio, in per cent, of net acquisition expenses to net  
premiums earned 

NET LOSS RATIO 
Ratio, in per cent, of net insurance losses to net premiums earned 

NET OPERATING PROFIT 
Profit after tax attributable to Lancashire excluding realised gains 
and losses, net of impairments, foreign exchange gains and losses 
and tax. Lancashire believes the reporting of net operating profit 
available helps the understanding of results by highlighting the 
underlying profitability of the Group’s core insurance and 
reinsurance business 

NET PREMIUMS WRITTEN 
Net premiums written is equal to gross premiums written less 
outwards reinsurance premiums written  

ORSA 
Own Risk and Solvency Assessment 

OTC 
Over the counter 

PML 
Probable maximum loss 

PRA 
Prudential Regulation Authority 

PRO-RATA/PROPORTIONAL  
Reinsurance or insurance where the reinsurer or insurer shares a 
proportional part of the original premiums and losses of the 
reinsured or insured 

RCF 
Revolving credit facility 

RDS 
Realistic Disaster Scenarios 

RETROCESSION 
The reinsurance of a reinsurance account  

RETURN ON EQUITY (RoE) 
The IRR of the change in FCBVS in the period plus  
accrued dividends 

RISK FREE RATE OF RETURN (RFRoR) 
Being the 13-week U.S. Treasury bill rate, unless otherwise stated 

RSS 
Restricted share scheme 

SATEC 
SATEC Underwriting, a privately owned insurance underwriting 
agency operating at national and international level in specialty 
classes of business. SATEC Underwriting is a coverholder at Lloyd’s 

SCR 
Solvency Capital Requirement 

SHARP 
Lancashire’s in-house aggregation system 

S&P GLOBAL RATINGS (S&P) 
S&P Global Ratings is a worldwide insurance rating and information 
agency whose ratings are recognised as an ideal benchmark for 
assessing the financial strength of insurance related organisations 

SYNDICATE 2010 
Lloyd’s Syndicate 2010, managed by CUL. The Group provides 
capital to support 57.8 per cent of the stamp 

SYNDICATE 3010 
Lloyd’s Syndicate 3010, managed by CUL. The Group provides 
capital to support 100.0 per cent of the stamp 

THE SYNDICATES 
Syndicate 2010 and Syndicate 3010 

TOBA 
Terms of business agreements 

TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN (TSR) 
The IRR of the increase/(decrease) in share price in the period, 
measured in U.S. dollars, adjusted for dividends 

TREATY REINSURANCE 
A reinsurance contract under which the reinsurer agrees to offer  
and to accept all risks of a certain size within a defined class 

UK 
United Kingdom 

UMCC 
Underwriting and Marketing Conference Call 

UNEARNED PREMIUMS  
The portion of premium income that is attributable to periods  
after the balance sheet date that is deferred and amortised to future 
accounting periods 

RMBS 
Residential mortgage backed securities 

UNL 
Ultimate net loss 

RMS 
Risk Management Solutions 

RPI 
Renewal Price Index 

RRC 
Risk and Return Committee 

RSC 
Reinsurance Security Committee 

USCR 
Ultimate solvency capital requirement 

U.S. GAAP 
Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States 

VALUE AT RISK (VAR) 
A measure of the risk of loss of a specific portfolio of financial assets 

174 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 

www.lancashiregroup.com 
www.lancashiregroup.com 

175 
159

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
KINESIS 
Kinesis Capital Management Limited  
Power House 
7 Par-la-Ville Road 
Hamilton HM 11 
Bermuda 

Phone: + 1 441 278 8950  
Fax: + 1 441 278 8951 

LEGAL COUNSEL TO THE COMPANY 
AS TO ENGLISH AND U.S. LAW: 
Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP 
City Point 
1 Ropemaker Street 
London EC2Y 9AW 
United Kingdom 

AS TO BERMUDA LAW: 
Conyers Dill & Pearman Limited 
Clarendon House 
2 Church Street 
Hamilton HM 11 
Bermuda 

AUDITORS 
Ernst & Young LLP 
25 Churchill Place 
Canary Wharf 
London E14 5EY 
United Kingdom 

REGISTRAR 
Capita Registrars (Jersey) Limited 
PO Box 532 
St Helier  
Jersey JE4 5UW 
Channel Islands 

DEPOSITARY 
Capita IRG Trustees Limited 
The Registry 
34 Beckenham Road 
Beckenham 
Kent BR3 4TU 
United Kingdom 

CONTACT INFORMATION 

HEAD OFFICE 
Lancashire Holdings Limited 
29th Floor  
20 Fenchurch Street  
London EC3M 3BY 
United Kingdom 

Phone: + 44 (0) 20 7264 4000  
Fax: + 44 (0) 20 7264 4077 

REGISTERED OFFICE  
Lancashire Holdings Limited 
Power House 
7 Par-la-Ville Road 
Hamilton HM 11 
Bermuda 

Phone: + 1 441 278 8950  
Fax: + 1 441 278 8951 

BERMUDA OFFICE 
Lancashire Insurance Company Limited 
Power House 
7 Par-la-Ville Road 
Hamilton HM 11 
Bermuda 

Phone: + 1 441 278 8950  
Fax: + 1 441 278 8951 

UK OFFICE 
Lancashire Insurance Company  
(UK) Limited 
29th Floor 
20 Fenchurch Street  
London EC3M 3BY 
United Kingdom 

Phone: + 44 (0) 20 7264 4000  
Fax: + 44 (0) 20 7264 4077 

CATHEDRAL 
Cathedral Capital Limited  
29th Floor 
20 Fenchurch Street 
London EC3M 3BY 
United Kingdom 

Phone: + 44 (0) 20 7170 9000  
Fax: + 44 (0) 20 7170 9001 

160 
160 

Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016 
Lancashire Holdings Limited | Annual Report & Accounts 2016

Visit our corporate website for more information: 
http://www.lancashiregroup.com

This report is printed on Heaven 42 and Essential 
Offset which have been independently certified by 
the Forest Stewardship Council® and manufactured 
using materials from sustainable sources.

The inks used are all vegetable oil based.

Designed and produced by Black Sun Plc.

Printed at Principal Colour Ltd. ISO 14001 certified, 
Alcohol Free and FSC® Chain of Custody certified.

www.lancashiregroup.com